Purchased this rack for putting a rooftop tent on my 03 Tacoma step side (overland build). Since my truck has an odd-ball size (non-standard width due to the step side), I had to use a universal rack. This one wasn't crazy expensive, was pretty sturdy, and could fit multiple sized beds.
Setup was fairly easy. There were good instructions. It uses a clamp based system that works well. My only thought is that the metal pads for the supports are big, so for my smaller truck, there is some overlap. I am sure they were gearing this more for mid to full-size trucks, but it does work on mine ok as well. There is just some overlap, and I centered them as best as I could.
If you are looking to put something like a RTT on it, you may need longer bolts. My tent (Tuff-Stuff Ranger) came with 2" connecting bolts, and I could get them to work, but barely...it scared me enough to go buy 2.5" galvanized bolts to have extra threads to work with. Also, the bottom plate that helps hold the tent on had to be longer. This is due to the spreader bars being pretty thick and wide, so some rack & tent installs may be a bit tricky. It ended up costing me about $20 in parts for my tent, and most box stores (or Amazon) have the extra parts. I like the fact that the bars are a bit bigger/sturdier, as the static load for this rack is 800 lbs (many are not as high). Just the tent alone is almost 140 lbs, and then you put a few hundred pounds extra of people, and other items as well, and it adds up quick. It's a beefy rack, and I don't think there should be any issues with load. Also, it was just high enough that it didn't block my rear view...I can see some of it, but not enough that I cannot tell who is behind me, or block me in seeing as I back up. It does leave the tent up in the wind stream some, so will have to do some fairing work with that.
Quality control is good - powder coat was done well, no major scratches. It got banged up a bit from shipping, but nothing that to me was returnable. The other nice thing is that if my truck dies and I get a new one, I can most likely just move it to whatever new truck I get. It also comes with load brackets that keep loads from shifting, good end caps, and weather stripping. It did not make any extra whistling or anything after it was installed.
All in all, satisfied with this rack. Has not caused any issues, and seems to be holding up well.
| Manufacturer | AA-Racks |
|---|---|
| Brand | AA-Racks |
| Item Weight | 37.1 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 71 x 14 x 15 inches |
| Manufacturer Part Number | APX2502-BLK |
