3rd gen roof racks

[97t4r81]

Hey y’all, let’s talk racks. So many truly awesome racks out there,for the 4Runner. Most cost more than I can responsibly spend and I only use my rack occasionally, mostly to haul lumber and metal, as it is, works ok for that. I’ve always liked the idea of having almost a flatbed truck like area on the roof or a 2nd floor. I designed this rack to be nearly flat, full length and decked with rigid plastic material, with tie downs and the ability to add rails, to not roll off when sleeping up top. I’ve never gotten around to finishing this project, so today the journey continues and that brings up a question. Does anyone know the location of the sunroof mechanicals? Specifically in the front above the windshield, in line with factory R.R. Mounting holes. I’m thinking of using rivnuts in the roof area just above the a pillars(see photos for proposed rivnut location), so I don’t have to remove trim or head liner. If anyone has their headliner down that could snap a picture, that would be awesome. Or maybe you’re a roof rack genius and have an altogether better way. I’m thinking to fab a rubber spacer to keep the rack flattish and an aluminum front cover/air wedge.
the rack is made from the rails that hold cargo shelves in work vans. Under rails, to keep them flat, are the strips from a minivan roof rack. I haven’t gotten the decking material yet, but it’s like the bottom of plastic grocery carts.
hope everyone is having a safe and happy easter, thanks, Keith

 

[Sherpa Equipment Co.]

You should not have any issues using rivnuts, as long as you keep it in line with the stock roof track. Many people extend their roof tracks to the front and don't have interference issues under the headliner. There are a few forum write ups in regards to extending the stock roof tracks which may also be of help. As well as this one from Living Overland about reinforcing the roof on a 3rd gen 4runner.

https://www.livingoverland.com/2012/02/reinforcing-roof.html?m=1

 

[97t4r81]

Thank you that article is very helpful. I may just pull the liner to make certain and reinforce the roof. I had the liner out on my old runner, but I thought I’d ask this question first, than “how to fix sunroof or wires?” Thanks