Minimal tool DIY roof rack

[ManitobaTacoma]

Currently working on a new roof rack. I don't have all the fancy tools so can't weld or bend tubing etc. But this is what I came up with. Built with nuts, bolts, self-tapping screws and basic materials.

 

[Shakes355]

Very nice. Most useful rack is the one you have. A few things to keep in mind as you continue.

) Flex is the enemy. Even more so when using bolts for fixturing. Consider a vertical element to help fight twist.

) Loctite is your friend.

Keep the pics coming!

 

[ManitobaTacoma]

Very nice. Most useful rack is the one you have. A few things to keep in mind as you continue.

) Flex is the enemy. Even more so when using bolts for fixturing. Consider a vertical element to help fight twist.

) Loctite is your friend.

Keep the pics coming!

Thanks. Not sure if there is going to be much in the way of flex with how I plan on mounting it. But I will keeps your words in mind! I am currently letting the final coats of paint dry, then I'll be doing a final fitting, and figure out attachment points and retention points!

Will try to upload photos afterwards.

 

[Sparksalot]

Nice anvil btw!

 

[ManitobaTacoma]

Nice anvil btw!

Thanks! It has been with me for a long time.

 

[Sparksalot]

Thanks! It has been with me for a long time.

I figured. Those things are like gold anytime I try to price one.

 

[ManitobaTacoma]

I figured. Those things are like gold anytime I try to price one.

You're lucky if you can get them for a 1.00/lb, and especially if they are old manufacture, which tend to be better than the newer ones, unless you're buying high end which is $$$

 

[Sparksalot]

You're lucky if you can get them for a 1.00/lb, and especially if they are old manufacture, which tend to be better than the newer ones, unless you're buying high end which is $$$

I've been glancing at them them on the used /garage sale pages. Most are closer to $10/lb. And appear as old in pictures. Both of my grandfathers had nice ones. But I was 1,500 miles away when they passed.

 

[ManitobaTacoma]

I've been glancing at them them on the used /garage sale pages. Most are closer to $10/lb. And appear as old in pictures. Both of my grandfathers had nice ones. But I was 1,500 miles away when they passed.

Yeah, they can be hard to get a hold of. I bought mine off an old junk collector for 90.00 (it's a 90 ish pound anvil) so I got a good deal, but it's one of those things you just got to get lucky.

 

[ManitobaTacoma]

UPDATE: Build is done, and rack has been installed. Might still need some tweaking, and did some Last minute after-thought add ons, but it is solid and doesn't look terrible. There is no roof clearance however, so I may have to lift it up on spacers.