Added Rhino Rack Backbone & Pioneer Platform to my ‘04

[neilsen100]

Thinking about getting this rack but for my LX470. Anyone have experience with this rack on the RCL legs vs backbone? Anyone try the backbone on their LX?

I don't have the backbone but I did look at switching to it. From talking with the Rhino Rack folks they've said that Backbone is functionally the same, just less parts. Same height, support, etc. I reinstalled my RTT this week and was glad to have the side access to the mounting hardware. Don't believe the Backbone system would allow me to reach under.

 

[CBeckFJ]

Thinking about getting this rack but for my LX470. Anyone have experience with this rack on the RCL legs vs backbone? Anyone try the backbone on their LX?

I'm going to go with the Front runner slimline because It's stronger. The beams go horizontally across the rack, providing a stronger mounting surface. The rhino racks beams go vertically along the rack, because front runner patented their design.

 

[Lalalx470]

I don't have the backbone but I did look at switching to it. From talking with the Rhino Rack folks they've said that Backbone is functionally the same, just less parts. Same height, support, etc. I reinstalled my RTT this week and was glad to have the side access to the mounting hardware. Don't believe the Backbone system would allow me to reach under.

Good point about access under the rack, it would be a pain to bolt on the RTT

 

[Lalalx470]

I'm going to go with the Front runner slimline because It's stronger. The beams go horizontally across the rack, providing a stronger mounting surface. The rhino racks beams go vertically along the rack, because front runner patented their design.

I like those front runner racks, but I have a hardshell RTT, and the little lip on the Slimline means I'd need to add their additional tent brackets.
I'll probably just go with the cheap option, and just use the rhino crossbars.

 

[zipdoa]

Mounted my fairing back a spot, but I also plan on adding light bar. Might be another way to add under your overhang.

View attachment 1871681

Which size fairing is this?

 

[implayaz9]

I like the way that looks compared other rack systems.

 

[Greenbean]

Can I ask if you guys are just cutting out the factory channel covers to use the forward mounts or removing the channel moulding/cover all together?

One would think the backbone system would be a tad stronger as it ties all three mounts per side into a single piece of metal.

 

[jlm43]

Can I ask if you guys are just cutting out the factory channel covers to use the forward mounts or removing the channel moulding/cover all together?

One would think the backbone system would be a tad stronger as it ties all three mounts per side into a single piece of metal.

I just cut a square out of the channel similar to the cutouts at the other mounting points. Relatively straightforward with a Dremel with a cutoff wheel.
Backbone vs 6 feet is personal preference. The platform is supported by 3 feet per side. If the BB has more contact points to the platform than that, then maybe it will be slightly stronger. I run the RCL legs and have zero strength issues even with 3 people up there.

 

[zipdoa]

Can I ask if you guys are just cutting out the factory channel covers to use the forward mounts or removing the channel moulding/cover all together?

One would think the backbone system would be a tad stronger as it ties all three mounts per side into a single piece of metal.

Replied to your PM, but definitely keep the moulding on there. Either buy/source a 3-hole rain gutter trim or just cut it with a dremel.

Backbone is stronger, tradeoff is that you lose all side-access to get under the rack, which would be a real PITA if you're using a JB RTT or similar style that requires bolting the tent down. I've 'heard' that the backbone mounts slightly lower, so you might get more clearance for your garage - nobody has confirmed this yet, though.

I've had no issues with strength using the conventional 6-footpack version.

 

[jlm43]

I've had no issues with strength using the conventional 6-footpack version.

Same here. I think the BB may be stronger on paper, but in practice, both styles are strong enough that it would be near impossible to notice the difference.

@Greenbean , if you're debating between the backbone and the 6 feet style, here are some other things to add to the "pro vs con" matrix.
As for height goes, you can run the RCL feet even though Rhino Rack recommends the RCH feet. The RCL feet are roughly 15mm lower than the RCH feet. I ordered my setup direct from RR and they sent me the RCL feet and said it will fit fine. They said that if I need more clearance, I can run the platform spacers to fine tune the needed height.

Another plus of the 6 feet option is that you can remove the rack in about 5 minutes if needed. I do this to run my LC through the car wash when needed. It also allows me to remove the platform and run the 3 Vortex crossbars during the winter months.

 

[Greenbean]

Same here. I think the BB may be stronger on paper, but in practice, both styles are strong enough that it would be near impossible to notice the difference.

@Greenbean , if you're debating between the backbone and the 6 feet style, here are some other things to add to the "pro vs con" matrix.
As for height goes, you can run the RCL feet even though Rhino Rack recommends the RCH feet. The RCL feet are roughly 15mm lower than the RCH feet. I ordered my setup direct from RR and they sent me the RCL feet and said it will fit fine. They said that if I need more clearance, I can run the platform spacers to fine tune the needed height.

Another plus of the 6 feet option is that you can remove the rack in about 5 minutes if needed. I do this to run my LC through the car wash when needed. It also allows me to remove the platform and run the 3 Vortex crossbars during the winter months.

Thanks bro, I appreciate the update.

I‘m leaning heavily towards the feet and load bars then if the wife and I decide we need a platform, the whole rack. But the load bars would be best for now.

 

[jlm43]

Thanks bro, I appreciate the update.

I‘m leaning heavily towards the feet and load bars then if the wife and I decide we need a platform, the whole rack. But the load bars would be best for now.

Sounds like a decent plan. I run the 65" bars without any issues. I don't think you can go any wider though as the bottom of the bars aren't cut out enough.

If you want the 54" silver heavy duty bars, Amazon has one used one (seller is Amazon warehouse) for under $30. Just click on the used options. Amazon warehouse is Amazon's way of selling returns and open box buys.
Amazon product ASIN B004B9WPFE

 

[zipdoa]

Same here. I think the BB may be stronger on paper, but in practice, both styles are strong enough that it would be near impossible to notice the difference.

@Greenbean , if you're debating between the backbone and the 6 feet style, here are some other things to add to the "pro vs con" matrix.
As for height goes, you can run the RCL feet even though Rhino Rack recommends the RCH feet. The RCL feet are roughly 15mm lower than the RCH feet. I ordered my setup direct from RR and they sent me the RCL feet and said it will fit fine. They said that if I need more clearance, I can run the platform spacers to fine tune the needed height.

Another plus of the 6 feet option is that you can remove the rack in about 5 minutes if needed. I do this to run my LC through the car wash when needed. It also allows me to remove the platform and run the 3 Vortex crossbars during the winter months.

Damn, that would've been good to know. 15mm + airing down tires might get me enough clearance to fit in my 7FT garage.

I have to scramble to find shelter every time we get a hail storm since the truck (even on low mode) is just a hair too tall to make it into the garage).