Rhino Rack backbone questions

[NJRadioGuy]

I have decided to purchase a Rhino Rack backbone system for my 22 JLUR, and I would like to get it installed ASAP. I live in the northeast and I'm writing this post in January, where winter is in full force with no real thaw on the horizon. I understand the rack system will set me back about $2500 all-in, and while I do have the budget for that, I'd rather not spend the $1500 for labour I was quoted at OK4WD. This is something I could probably do in my driveway with a friend on a warm day, but those are not likely to occur before my next planned trip in March. Anybody know of a shop who can supply and install the rack for me within the next few weeks and not charge an arm and a leg? I don't have an heated indoor shop at my disposal unfortunately.

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[Fonzilla85]

Yes, you can definitely install the backbone system without the need to take it to a shop. Rhino Rack gives you very detailed and easy to follow instructions.

 

[NJRadioGuy]

Yes, you can definitely install the backbone system without the need to take it to a shop. Rhino Rack gives you very detailed and easy to follow instructions.

I don't disagree; it's a tedious and precise but not overly difficult process. However as I explained in my initial post, we're in the dead of winter up here and I'm looking to get this done before my next outing in early March. Without a heated workspace, me doing a project like this outdoors is not realistic. I'm looking for a Rhino Rack dealer that won't charge me a king's ransom to do it. Rhino's own instructions say it's a 3-4 hour job, and I don't consider my local dealer's quote of 10-12 hours' labor to be either fair or reasonable.

 

[Willing&Able]

Have you checked Rhino Rack's website for certified / recommended installers in your area? I've found the FB page 'Overland USA' has tons of members that are quick to reply - to your question on both ballpark install $ and good shops to go to.

You'll love the system - I've had for four years or so on two different jeeps. I did have some minor leaking during rain with the first install. Recommend adding some silicone to seal where you drill through hard top.

 

[Andy@AAV]

Installing the backbone is the only part that needs to be done in one go. You can install that in 2-3 hours (I installed mine all in one night with beverages included), then assemble the rack inside on the floor (this takes a while, there's a lot of fasteners), then mount it on the backbone mounts at your leisure. You don't need to have the rack installed to the backbone to seal the top.

No clue on installers though. Maybe have then just do the backbone for you?

 

[WI_Sarge]

Pro tip: measure twice drill once. Not the other way around.

I like that system, but cant get myself to drill holes in my hard top.

 

[Andy@AAV]

Pro tip: measure twice drill once. Not the other way around.

I like that system, but cant get myself to drill holes in my hard top.

That’s why I had a few beverages before and during install lol

 

[NJRadioGuy]

Installing the backbone is the only part that needs to be done in one go. You can install that in 2-3 hours (I installed mine all in one night with beverages included

No clue on installers though. Maybe have them just do the backbone for you?

I'd be fine with that, to be honest. But it's finding a "them" that prompted my most. I'm happy to wrench on my Jeep when the weather is decent. But when it won't get much above 40° for three more months I'm more than willing to pay a GOOD shop to do it.

Pro tip: measure twice drill once. Not the other way around.

I like that system, but cant get myself to drill holes in my hard top.

Honestly yeah, drilling into any part of my Jeep is nerve wracking, but I've already put a couple of small holes in her when I installed my 2-way antenna and overhead molle panel. The trail scratches through the clear-coat hurt more than that! If it was in the 60s or 70s I'd have it done already, but winter in New Jersey ain't the time for wrenching outside.

 

[BigMaCro]

Make a friend with a garage, bring pizza and a case of beer.

Certainly having another person to help is almost a requirement. I did it by myself, but with much extra faffing about, including hanging the platform from the ceiling while I backed under it, and moving it side to side and measuring a million times. It takes a long time to assemble the platform, too. One day I did the backbone, and another I built and installed the platform.

I think the labor cost you were quoted is reasonable, all things considered, if they are experienced installing them.

 

[jim00]

Agree with above, half the work can be done in your house to asemble the platform. If you have a few space heaters or camping heaters / fire pit and a garage, I would say go that route - still cheaper and you have the space heaters for emergencies and future projects.

 

[Whaler27]

I have decided to purchase a Rhino Rack backbone system for my 22 JLUR, and I would like to get it installed ASAP. I live in the northeast and I'm writing this post in January, where winter is in full force with no real thaw on the horizon. I understand the rack system will set me back about $2500 all-in, and while I do have the budget for that, I'd rather not spend the $1500 for labour I was quoted at OK4WD. This is something I could probably do in my driveway with a friend on a warm day, but those are not likely to occur before my next planned trip in March. Anybody know of a shop who can supply and install the rack for me within the next few weeks and not charge an arm and a leg? I don't have an heated indoor shop at my disposal unfortunately.

I’d call the people at Ramsey Outdoor Store. They have several stores in your area and they are Rhino Dealers, so they should be able to help you find an installer. It looks like there’s another outfit on Long Island, which probably isn’t far… The Rhino website should help.

I love my backbone. My only additional pro-tip is to make sure you/they generously apply silicone sealant in and around the holes, because the rack will flex as you drive, particularly with a load. When my brother’s rack was initially installed they went light on the sealant, so he ended up with a small but irritating drip. He immediately took the rack apart, dried the holes, re-caulked, and it’s been dry as a bone for four years of heavy use since. I learned from his experience and applied plenty of sealant, and my rack has been dry as a bone since installation in 2020.

 

[NJRadioGuy]

I'll give that a shot. I just simply do not have access to a workshop to do this myself in the timeframe I need it done. If I could wait until May or June then fine, but I cannot. I have a hard-and-fast commitment for camping trips in March and mid-May and I need this done and tested before then. And yes, I'm absolutely adamant about ensuring those holes are sealed properly, and which is why I was looking for an experienced installer who does this kind of work on a regular basis and is competent at it.

Local 4WD shops are great at installing suspension lifts, big tires and whatnot, but are not experienced with overlanding-specific fittings. Probably because overlanding isn't a thing in the northeast.

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