EVO MFG Trail Roof Rack Installation / Review

[Andy2434]

The only problem I see with that solution is the lack of widened slots at the end of the bars. You might have to completely disconnect the cross rail at the end to feed the nuts in and then button everything back up. Slotted ends would be a nice add by EVO to make this system more functional.

The Maxtraxs are mounted. I used 4 strut nuts, 4 - 1/4” x 2” lg. SS hex head bolts, 4 - 1/4” SS split washers, 4 - 1/4” x 1-1/4” SS fender washers. I used a 7/16” ratcheting closed end.

Once I had all the pieces together, it took all of 15 minutes to install the first time. When the boards are not mounted, I will simply slide the strut nuts out the ends of the channels. If a strut nut is not caught and drops down on to the roof, simply use a long length of insulated wire to fish it out.

ETA: I snipped off the blue plastic pieces prior to using. The bare strut nut easily drops into the roof rack slot from the top.

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[Seanst34]

The Maxtraxs are mounted. I used 4 strut nuts, 4 - 1/4” x 2” lg. SS hex head bolts, 4 - 1/4” SS split washers, 4 - 1/4” x 1-1/4” SS fender washers. I used a 7/16” ratcheting closed end.

Once I had all the pieces together, it took all of 15 minutes to install the first time. When the boards are not mounted, I will simply slide the strut nuts out the ends of the channels. If a strut nut is not caught and drops down on to the roof, simply use a long length of insulated wire to fish it out.

ETA: I snipped off the blue plastic pieces prior to using. The bare strut nut easily drops into the roof rack slot from the top.

Great info...thanks for the share! Post
a wide angle pic with everything mounted once you’ve finished please.

 

[Andy2434]

Will do! Will have the Rotopax gas and water mounted, soon. I will use the same strut nut combined with a SS split washer, a SS flat washer, and a shorter SS bolt per fastening point.

 

[Andy2434]

Finally got the Rotopax mounted securely. I added 2 lengths of 1/8 x 1-1/4 x 1-1/4 aluminum angle to prevent them from flexing while on the trails.

Have 4 knobs with threaded studs incoming to replace the hex head bolts to secure the Maxtraxs.

I like this set-up for the desert.

 

[RichieRugs]

Finally got the Rotopax mounted securely. I added 2 lengths of 1/8 x 1-1/4 x 1-1/4 aluminum angle to prevent them from flexing while on the trails.

Have 4 knobs with threaded studs incoming to replace the hex head bolts to secure the Maxtraxs.

I like this set-up for the desert.

Thanks for all the info, great stuff. Think the aluminum is necessary for the Rotopax? Was install easy otherwise?

Called EVO to ask if there’s an easier way to add on mounting rings etc. Dropping some flex nuts in before install was the only thing they came up with. Took a closer look at front runner racks for other trucks and came up with an idea I thought could work, and EVO seemed to bless. Simply drill a wider round opening in the center of each of the cross bars. Simple enough, see photo for frontrunner solution. EVO rack seems so well designed, seems they dropped the ball on this. Thoughts?

 

[RichieRugs]

Aaaaaaand I think this may be a deal killer. “ It is advised to not carry items at high speeds that can create lift (upward force to due to wind) such as but not limited to kayaks, surfboards etc.”

 

[Andy2434]

Aaaaaaand I think this may be a deal killer. “ It is advised to not carry items at high speeds that can create lift (upward force to due to wind) such as but not limited to kayaks, surfboards etc.”

Yes, that is a major consideration. However, that will not affect the way in which I plan on using mine.

 

[laueddy]

Anyone who have this install happen to have a the top lift pro? if this add another 80 lbs to the roof, I wonder if I would still be able to use my Top lift Pro due to the additional weight and the weight balance?

 

[Seanst34]

Anyone who have this install happen to have a the top lift pro? if this add another 80 lbs to the roof, I wonder if I would still be able to use my Top lift Pro due to the additional weight and the weight balance?

Can’t speak to that specific top lift but I simply use four (now five) ratchet straps anchored to the ceiling of the garage. I added the fifth to wrap around the forward most roof rack cross member to guard against rotation of the top with the load being forward of the straps looped thru the sidewalks of the top. Worked just fine. Here’s a pic.

 

[Seanst34]

Anyone who have this install happen to have a the top lift pro? if this add another 80 lbs to the roof, I wonder if I would still be able to use my Top lift Pro due to the additional weight and the weight balance?

BTW I would call the manufacturer tech support for that lift. They should know the full load capacity.

 

[plex]

Finally got the Rotopax mounted securely. I added 2 lengths of 1/8 x 1-1/4 x 1-1/4 aluminum angle to prevent them from flexing while on the trails.

Have 4 knobs with threaded studs incoming to replace the hex head bolts to secure the Maxtraxs.

I like this set-up for the desert.

Can you share a picture of how your t-handle is secured to the rack? Where did you add the aluminum angles?

 

[Ryno77]

I absolutely love the looks of this rack. I have a sky one touch roof though. With it being so flush to the top, I don't see it having clearance to fold at the rear. Anyone have any experience with this? (I also have an email out to Evo about this).

 

[LunchBoxFab]

i can also report that i love this rack. very sturdy, no wind noise and very low profile.

would recommend for light duty.

 

[plex]

I absolutely love the looks of this rack. I have a sky one touch roof though. With it being so flush to the top, I don't see it having clearance to fold at the rear. Anyone have any experience with this? (I also have an email out to Evo about this).

No, I don't think you can install this with the sky one touch, unless you never will open you one touch roof.

 

[SuperNerdEE]

For those who have installed this rack, is there RTV used? Can the rack be removed?

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