Factory Rack w/ Cargo Box

[bmachine]

I have searched the past threads and have yet to find an answer to using the factory rack system with a cargo box. Is this possible or is my only solution to switch to Yakima or Thule?

By the way, this is my first post on this forum after purchasing a '97 80 Series. Love the vehicle and have been looking for years for the right fit (past has been filled with GWagens - SWB and LWB).

[450 DUDE]

I think your best bet will be going to a Yak or Thule gutter mount system.
Im running the Yak system with a box and kayack mounts.
Its been great , very flexible .

btw , welcome!
ken

[Pogue]

welcome!
I would try not to use the factory rack at all. It is only rated for about 50-100 lbs. Getting bars and gutter mounts is a better way to carry anything up there. If you search there are several threads on removing the factory rack as a lot of people have problems with water seeping in and causing rust and cancer issues. I have Yakima bars/rack/etc. on my 91 and they have worked great for years.
Good luck!

[AdventureBuddies]

cross bars and gutter mounts are much better, but the factory rack will work. I used a yakima box on a factory 4runner rack and it works fine and can handle the weight. The biggest concern with using the factory rack is not if it can handle the weight / downward pressure of the box, rather the uplift created by the car's forward speed (especially combined with a gusty headwind). if a factory rack fails, it will be in the upward direction and your box will take the crossbars (or possible the parrallel rails that attach to the roof) right with it.

i got thule feet and the long crossbars off craigslist and ebay for $60 or $70 total. keep an eye on the ads and you'll score a deal and it's well worth it for the peace of mind.