Questions Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform 84x56 install on Backbone w/LC dust deflector

[elum]

Reading through the instructions and documents from their websites it appears I need to drill a set of holes for mounting th PP to the BB... also, bc my LC like most has a dust deflector on the rear hatch I need to drill another 2 sets of holes I'm guessing to shift the rack forward and gain clearance. This should then affect the first set of holes for the BB compatibility....

Anyone already do this before I call RR?

 

[elum]

Talked to them on the phone my first try calling. Very helpful and easy to work with. I will need to drill 3 sets of holes due to having the dust deflector. If anyone has questions or issues with this let me know.

 

[Evan Kapel]

I have an 84x56 PP mounted using the 3 feet per side in the original roof rack mounting points so not quite the
same as a BB mount. I am pretty sure the BB uses the same existing (3 per side) mounting points with the frame
of the BB resting on the channel between them. If you want to keep the dust deflector, you will have to move the
rack forward on the BB which you should be able to do without drilling new holes. If not, the simple thing would be
remove the deflector. I attached a couple of photos of my rack to give an idea of how that size PP fits the roof. Hope this helps a little.

 

[70 FJ40]

Is there an advantage to the backbone mounts over the older style?

 

[Hotrodlarry]

I just ordered this rack at the overland expo. I have the dust deflector can you post the info for the revised bolt pattern?

 

[Beanzermin]

Is there an advantage to the backbone mounts over the older style?

Aesthetics and it mounts lower on the roof.

 

[Dorian]

FWIW, backbone and pioneer platform (84x56) fit perfectly in the already existing holes of a LX470 (with enough clearance for the rear spoiler).

 

[suboptimusprime]

FWIW, backbone and pioneer platform (84x56) fit perfectly in the already existing holes of a LX470 (with enough clearance for the rear spoiler).

View attachment 1995892

Nice--I want to do this as well. Is this just the part for the 100 series (ie both LX and LC)? Part is RTLB2 on the rhino rack page. Just want to be sure I get the correct part.

 

[Dorian]

Nice--I want to do this as well. Is this just the part for the 100 series (ie both LX and LC)? Part is RTLB2 on the rhino rack page. Just want to be sure I get the correct part.

Honestly, I don’t know. I had it done by a shop (4x4 Backcountry in Denver). They were very knowledgeable and did a great job (except that they got one screw crooked so it didn’t seal completely; but they fixed that too).

 

[zipdoa]

Is there an advantage to the backbone mounts over the older style?

RLCP02 (old style) advtanges:

- Much easier to access underside of pioneer platform (think of bolting on a rooftop tent)
- Way more aesthetic, less drag/window noise when rack/platform is not installed (the footpacks have inserts to bolt on when a tray or bars aren't attached)
- Modular - allows you to run HD bars OR Pioneer platform
- Potentially easier to install
- Half the price of the backbone

RTLB2 (backbone) advantages:

- Possibly stronger? (Never had an issue with the RLCP02, however. And mine was loaded up to the limit)
- Potentially more aesthetic when pioneer platform is installed (debatable)


I've strongly considered both and I'm currently looking for the RLCP02 to run on my new 100. I don't consider the backbone to bring any tangible advantages. It will be significantly harder to access the underside of the platform and there installing/removing accessories or especially a RTT will be much more difficult.

I also remove my platform when I'm not using it, so the RLCP02 is a significantly better choice - the footprint is miniscule when the platform is removed, whereas the BB looks really out of place:

Base footpack for RLCP02:

Backbone on 100 series with no rack: