2-Door Rocklander Rack System

[jpribe]

Great pictures. These show what the Metalcloak rack is going to look like better than other pictures I have seen.

So, comparing the Metalcloak rack system to the others, I think the Metalcloak system has the edge. It is beefy, strong, and has a solid mounting system that can be reversed without altering the vehicle. I especially like that catwalk feature.

I had a roof rack on a TJ back in the day, and after a year or so I decided I didn't want it anymore. But if I removed it I was left with holes in the hard top that I had drilled to install it in the first place. So, I kept the roof rack and just lived with it, even though I had decided I didn't want it.

The other roof rack that has been shown that requires drilling holes in the roof and has a lower profile looks out of place on a Jeep in my opinion. It is too fragile and wimpy looking.

I was on board with a no drill solution as well, I used the metal cloak bumper they recommend with it. One other thing to note that is popping the top off is a bit more difficult if that's something you'll do. I remove the rear hoop and prop the rack up with the freedom panels off. The rear hoop should sit on the rear fenders though, I'm going to experiment with something to set it on rather than fully removing it. Either way, it doesn't add that much time to the process.

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[jpribe]

Thanks. I appreciate the feedback. I'm still leaning toward this one. Will probably order soon. The only downside (from what others posted) that will be a little annoying is the additional height for getting in the garage. But I usually keep this vehicle in the driveway.

It'll add 4.5 to 4.75 inches, at least for me. The orange bit is a square sitting on the rack and the tape is resting on the hard top. It's a bit higher in the back.

 

[jpribe]

I have it in my garage ready to install. I’ll get back to you when I do.

You're in for a treat! I had a blast installing mine, just needed a friend to finish it off - I had fully assembled the top tubes and rack, though. It would have been easier had I just done one tube, the platform/rack, and then the other tube (I think?).

 

[dirtwheeler]

It'll add 4.5 to 4.75 inches, at least for me. The orange bit is a square sitting on the rack and the tape is resting on the hard top. It's a bit higher in the back.

Thanks! That's helpful. It would definitely be a tight squeeze for me. I'm already on a 3.5" lift and 37s, so still using the garage might be out of the question. I've got four vehicles and a two car garage right now, so the JL would just be kicked out of the garage permanently ... that would probably be the case with most racks though. I'll need to measure to be sure.

 

[Westymike]

I have the ARS rack with Stealth deck and it works perfectly for my needs. It’s been through the rubicon, to Canada, Mexico, Sand Hallow and Death Valley a few times. I easily take it on and off in between trips and it holds a lot of weight without causing any issues.
Very little wind noise and I would argue that the “other” racks with smaller tubing are probably much noisier.

I just did a little video about the stealth rack and it shows the ARS rack a little closer.

 

[dirtwheeler]

I have the ARS rack with Stealth deck and it works perfectly for my needs. It’s been through the rubicon, to Canada, Mexico, Sand Hallow and Death Valley a few times. I easily take it on and off in between trips and it holds a lot of weight without causing any issues.
Very little wind noise and I would argue that the “other” racks with smaller tubing are probably much noisier.

I just did a little video about the stealth rack and it shows the ARS rack a little closer.

I watched the video - good video, love the Jeep. I tripped across the video earlier looking to see if someone posted their installation experience, but I don't think I found anything. I mainly want to see how it ties into an OEM steel rear bumper, but I assume it's pretty straightforward. I still haven't ordered yet, but leaning in that direction. I mainly want it for strapping some gear boxes up top to give me the option to throw my backseat back in or take my dogs. I like the idea of a RTT but I don't want to haul it around all the time and they look like a pain to get on and off.

After I get a frame, or rack of some sort, I'll be looking at baskets next. You setup with the stealth rack looks like a good option. With that flat base, I'd be tempted to hang out on top with a lawn chair!

 

[Westymike]

I watched the video - good video, love the Jeep. I tripped across the video earlier looking to see if someone posted their installation experience, but I don't think I found anything. I mainly want to see how it ties into an OEM steel rear bumper, but I assume it's pretty straightforward. I still haven't ordered yet, but leaning in that direction. I mainly want it for strapping some gear boxes up top to give me the option to throw my backseat back in or take my dogs. I like the idea of a RTT but I don't want to haul it around all the time and they look like a pain to get on and off.

After I get a frame, or rack of some sort, I'll be looking at baskets next. You setup with the stealth rack looks like a good option. With that flat base, I'd be tempted to hang out on top with a lawn chair!

Thanks for the watch! The rear bumper brackets just got a revamp and are much easier to install. You should have no problem with any of the stock bumpers.

also, I take my rack on and off all of the time and can remove the rear hoop and trusses in about 8-10 mins with the help of a friend. I usually leave the front hoop on year round.

 

[NINTH]

there are a lot of downsides to that ARS rack system. I think the Maximus3 is much more sleek and practical, with the only downside being you have to drill the roof.

https://www.maximus-3.com/product-page/jl-2-door-roof-rack-system-52110f

Anyone know of a similar rack to maximus3 in terms of design/sleekness without having to drill?

I really want the maximus one but without the drilling if thats possible

 

[Nosivadbor]

Anyone know of a similar rack to maximus3 in terms of design/sleekness without having to drill?

I really want the maximus one but without the drilling if thats possible

I have this bolt on version from Rhino Rack. The capacity is much lower because it is clamping to the fiberglass drip rails. But it works fine for me as I only usually hauling paddleboards.

https://www.rhinorack.com/en-us/products/sale-items/clearance/clearance/jeep-overlanding-kit_rolj1

 

[Pismo61]

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[Soapy]

A Maximus3 type rack that I have is the Dee Zee rack that uses the rain gutter and additional support feet right at the bend of the roof for added support. It is fairly strong but found it did howl when driving until I stuffed 1/2 inch foam backer rod in all the slots then it was fine. These are under $500 on amazon.
All that being said I ordered the Metal CLoak rear bumper today so I can start to assemble the Ars rack on my 2 door eventually. I might even talk myself in to the front hoop and order it before the sale is over. 15% off right now. I was either going to get the stronger bumper mount for my stock steel bumper or the Metal cloak rear bumper and talked myself into going with the full bumper. I watched a couple of builds that Epic adventures did on you tube with these ARS frames and was impressed.

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