What Roof Rack Do You Recommend for a Camper Shell with Tracks?

Question:

I actually think I would prefer going with a pioneer platform system on my truck cap. Which size platform should I order and what all will I need for this setup? Again, it’s on a ARE mx cap on a ram 1500 classic with a 6’ 4” bed. My top has Thule tracks that are 50" long x 37-1/2 inches wide.

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

For a great roof rack system for your A.R.E. Mx truck cap, I recommend the Rhino-Rack Roof Rack for Factory Tracks - 59" # Y02-490B-NT. The Rhino-Rack Roof Rack includes 2 Vortex Aero black, elliptical crossbars that you can use to hold ladder racks, conduit cases, and other work accessories. In addition, the Rhino-Rack Roof Rack crossbars come with a 220 pound weight capacity. I recommend checking the user's manual on your camper shell to make sure it can accommodate that much weight.

If you need straps for transporting your cargo, I recommend 2 of the Ratchet Grab Tie-Down Strap for Rhino-Rack Aero/Sportz Crossbars # RRSRG with 2 sets of the channel-mount eye-bolts # S604. These accessories mount efficiently into the top channels of the Rhino-Rack Vortex crossbars.

expert reply by: Bob C

Thule SnowPack Ski and Snowboard Carrier Mounted on Rhino-Rack Vortex Crossbars
(click to enlarge)

Brian

1/1/0001

Will I still be able to install my Thule snowpack ski mounts to this rack system?

Brian

1/1/0001

Bob C.

8/25/2021

Yes, you will be able to mount all models of the SnowPack Ski and Snowboard Carrier to the Rhino-Rack Vortex crossbars from the Rhino-Rack Roof Rack for Factory Tracks - 59" # Y02-490B-NT. I went ahead and attached a picture of the SnowPack used with the same Rhino-Rack Vortex crossbars (only silver).

Bob C.

9/15/2021

I have an answer for you. Unfortunately, Rhino-Rack's engineers have not confirmed the use of a Pioneer Platform on your A.R.E. MX topper on your Ram 1500 Classic (as far as aerodynamics and weight capacity). However, we do have parts available that will technically fit the Thule tracks on your topper to mount a platform. For a recommended fit for your 50" long x 37" wide Thule tracks, I recommend the following parts: - Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform Roof Tray - Aluminum - 52" Long x 49" Wide # RR32TB - Rhino-Rack Quick Mount Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars - RTC and RT Roof Rack Tracks # RRRLT600 - Adapter Kit for Rhino-Rack RTL600 Legs # RRT-FK1 With these parts, you will be able to mount a Rhino-Rack Pioneer platform on your vehicle.