Roof rack - the ultimate backpack

[LandCruisers4Life]

I just got done installing this roof rack, which is made in Venezuela.

[Al]

That rack looks strong enough to handle just about anything.  One thing you need to consider is a roof rack will noticeably reduce a vehicle's performance and mileage on the highway.  So you only want to mount it when you need it.

Al

[dkerr24]

That rack looks strong enough to handle just about anything.  One thing you need to consider is a roof rack will noticeably reduce a vehicle's performance and mileage on the highway.  So you only want to mount it when you need it.

Al

lol... considering he's driving a Landcruiser... could the mileage really get much worse?  :) 

Or begin to measure in gallons per mile instead of miles per gallon?

But seriously, it does look like a well-constructed unit.  Far better than the cosmetic roof racks adorning most SUV's.

[Al]

Actually yes.  When you're getting poor mpg to start out with, it hurts all the more.  Believe me I have an old full sized PU but it is a tertiary vehicle, parked most of the time and only used when needed to haul stuff.

Al

[LandCruisers4Life]

I checked my trip computer after the install, and I lost 1 mpg..... Of course, I want to see how that works out over time. This rack is so strong, you could probably set another Land Cruiser on it if you took off the rails (which is possible to do, you can make it totally flat).

[LandCruisers4Life]

Always wondered, if I ever had to downsize due to fuel costs and get rid of my full sized van, if a roof rack like this could carry heavy stuff like jugs of water, gasoline, etc, or is it limited to lighter stuff like sleepng bags, tents and the like?

This roof rack can carry whatever you like. No problems. This particular brand is almost impossible to get in the United States. However a few were brought over a couple years ago by a fellow Land Cruiser enthusiast directly from Venezuela. I got the last one. There are other racks out there which are also very stout built. If you get to the point you want one, let me know and I can point you in the proper direction.

[LandCruisers4Life]

10-4  Thanks for the offer.  I hope my current big gas guzzler will last me a few more years, so not needed now, but thinking ahead for the future.  From what one said about mileage, perhaps a removeable one would be best?

People ask me all the time what kind of gas mileage I get. I have no idea... I bought this type of vehicle because it's what I enjoy driving. I am not immune to the high costs of gasoline at the pump, but I just wouldn't be happy driving anything else really.

Was thinking of buying a moped for cruising around town and using the LC for just getting groceries, work, etc. when not trail riding.

[Al]

We are going to see dramatic improvements in truck mileage in the next few years.  I'm holding on to my old gas guzzler for a while yet.  It's payed for. I figure by 2011 we are going to see a new generation of trucks that might make it worth while to buy a new one.  But not yet. 

I have the alternative of driving an ol' '97 Buick Regal which purrs like a kitten and I have finally convinced the wife is a keeper for a couple of more years; it's a comfortable ride, has good get up and go and averages ~25 miles to the gallon which is over 50% better than the truck @ 16 mpg. It's payed for too. 

If you have a guzzler and it's not payed for, you need to run the math to see if it is worth buying something more fuel efficient.  I am historically a Ford man but would buy a Chevy if I needed a new full sized truck today.  The difference between 16 mpg and 20 mpg can add up if you drive a lot of miles but the mileage difference will not offset a car payment, in terms of monthly cash flow, even at $4.00/gal.

Al

[homerboy2u]

O.K....so what are the special fetures of the rack made in Venezuela?

[LandCruisers4Life]

See that section in the front behind the light cage where the rails go higher? That whole section is designed to carry 7, five gallon cans of gasoline (or diesel). The rack sides can also be dropped down to the sides to permit carrying a bulky load if needed.

[dkerr24]

I can see why that rack would be popular in Venezuela... they pay like .25 cents a gallon for gas, so stock up for the winter!  lol

[lighter fluid]

That's a great looking vehicle and a great looking new rack LandCruisers4Life.

[LandCruisers4Life]

Thank you, I appreciate the compliment.