So I bit the bullet and got a real rack rather than lug that tent on the factory rack. Quick summary:
1. Front Runner install was very straight forward and easy. I did follow the guidelines for removing the bolts and i did not have any issues. There are 4 total hidden bolts at the center of the rack... you need to pry the plastic cover off to gain access... that took awhile for me to find (shown below)
2. In hind sight, the factory rack is more than capable of supporting that behemoth tent... but I wanted to mount the awning I impulsively bought... so i needed a rack.
3. The quick release system (I bought the supports as well) worked out great but i am having trouble securing 1/4 of the latches. I think i just need to adjust the attachment point on the tent a little bit so they all latch...
4. Even with the supports installed I dont see how the load of the tent is evenly dispersed I do think they will minimize the flex in the tent but i think the wood solution was much better!
5. Final thoughts on the rack / tent stuff: Very well made and very customizable. I do not regret making the purchase at all... I added a few inches of height so i wont be going into any parking garage anytime soon but the ease at which the tent can be removed is well worth it.... now i just need to make a jig so it becomes a one man job
1. Front Runner install was very straight forward and easy. I did follow the guidelines for removing the bolts and i did not have any issues. There are 4 total hidden bolts at the center of the rack... you need to pry the plastic cover off to gain access... that took awhile for me to find (shown below)
2. In hind sight, the factory rack is more than capable of supporting that behemoth tent... but I wanted to mount the awning I impulsively bought... so i needed a rack.
3. The quick release system (I bought the supports as well) worked out great but i am having trouble securing 1/4 of the latches. I think i just need to adjust the attachment point on the tent a little bit so they all latch...
4. Even with the supports installed I dont see how the load of the tent is evenly dispersed I do think they will minimize the flex in the tent but i think the wood solution was much better!
5. Final thoughts on the rack / tent stuff: Very well made and very customizable. I do not regret making the purchase at all... I added a few inches of height so i wont be going into any parking garage anytime soon but the ease at which the tent can be removed is well worth it.... now i just need to make a jig so it becomes a one man job