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Roof Camper Rack Installation

Alaskan Camper Roof Rack

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#1 JeffM

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Posted 03 May 2022 - 05:20 AM

I have a 2001 10' cabover camper and want to install a rack using brackets similar to the ones that are installed by the factory. I intend to install the front rack brackets in the location where they are installed by the factory. I want to install the rear brackets along the side of the camper in a location close to the rear corners of the camper. This is different than where the factory installs the rear brackets which are along the back wall of the camper. I intend to haul two kayaks and install two solar panels to the front of the rack. Total weight of everything including the rack should be less than 150 pounds. I am wondering if the rack brackets installed in the locations described above is acceptable? I also would like to know if the brackets installed at the factory are through bolted and if there are certain structural elements of the camper where the rack supports should be located?

Thanks, Jeff 


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#2 Dr.Science

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Posted 05 May 2022 - 05:57 PM

Difficult. The aft bulkhead is plywood and the brackets can be through-bolted to it in a variety of positions, and will be strong. You just need to pick a location where you can access the bolts, meaning below the inside roofline. Access within the overhead storage bin would hide the bolt heads. The side of the camper is mostly framed with 2x2s, which are not especially structurally strong and to bolt to them you would also need to know precisely where they are located, which would likely mean peeling back the outer aluminum skin. But more importantly they are not intended to be stressed members. The forward brackets, on the other hand, are bolted into structurally important wood.


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#3 Keith in Co

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Posted 06 June 2022 - 02:37 AM

I built the rack on my 8’ NCO using 1.5” mill finish square aluminum tubing. Sturdy, lightweight and minimal flexing.  Attached to stock Alaskan canoe rack mounts upgraded with new Grade 5 bolts and nylock nuts.  Holds 300w solar panels, basket, ski/bike racks etc.

These panels do require cleaning to maintain efficiency so consider placement where you can reach them.

 

 

 

 

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