Rhino Rack vs. Maximus-3

[skipdup]

I've been stressing about a rack since I got my Jeep. Originally wasn't considering drilling. But, now I'm trying to decide between the 2 in the title. Will use Pioneer platform with either one I go with.

I really like the looks of the Rhino (the nubs on the side), installation process, and the ability to remove rack, use rails, or use nothing. But, I like the weight capacity of Maximus-3.

But I wonder... Are the weight capacities really accurate? Is there a standard process of determining weight capacity? Are some companies ultra conservative while others not so much?

The cracking hardtops worries me. But, it looks like the cracking happens without roof racks too. So... ???

I'll probably use for 270 awning, recovery gear, maxtrax, some fuel(?), folding chairs, stuff like that.

Thanks!!
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[STW]

the weight/load difference (is it mainly a static weight difference? or dynamic too?) seems likely due to the Maximus-3 load path using an extremely short load path strait to the front roll cage, and a quite short load path going straight to the rear roll cage.

The Backbone (RhinoRack) system has a significantly longer, and not as direct, load path. And it goes to the tub’s top edge. The Backbone system is a super way to carry lots of roof rack weight, but the load paths are less optimized for maximum weight handling than the Maximus-3. The Backbone is better optimized for hardtop removal than the Maximus-3 though. The M-3 allows hardtop removal fine, but those front strut bolts are not easy to reach.

I chose the Maximus-3 version partly because I like how low profile it is, and I like that the rack feet are well under the rack. Wouldn’t hesitate to carry the Backbone system’s full static load though. It’s an excellent system too.

haven’t heard of any hardtops cracking from either rack. May have missed that news if it’s happening to someone. My hardtop is clearly not stressed at all from the Maximus-3 install. All the load goes through not on it. The hardtop is a passive layer in the rack set up.

 

[micahpop]

Having installed both (Maximus-3 on mine and Backbone on friend's), the Backbone was much easier to install. If you like the way it looks over the M-3, I think you'll be fine going this route with regard to any concerns over weight ratings.

 

[jhackathorne]

Agreed with @STW. It sounds like your weight should not be an issue if all you listed is all that is going up there. Only word of caution on the Maximus-3 version is it is hard to take your top off if that is something you want to do. I ran it on my JK and with tent, my wife and I, and gear, we were well over 500 lb on there and had no concerns. Taking the tent off was a huge hassle though since there is minimal room for access.

 

[Reinen]

If you're not taking the HT off I'd go with the Maximus-3. It's more of a PIA to install (you will curse out those front 4 bolts and will need a fine tooth socket wrench) but once in it's as solid as your roll cage. When installed correctly not only does it not stress the HT, it secures it as well.

For HT removal go with RR backbone. But the price you pay is lower weight limits and a support system more prone to flexing.

Weight limits are accurate. Respect them. Especially pay attention to dynamic max weight. That's the one more likely to crack HTs when exceeded more than static.

 

[2DR OVRLND]

I've been stressing about a rack since I got my Jeep. Originally wasn't considering drilling. But, now I'm trying to decide between the 2 in the title. Will use Pioneer platform with either one I go with.

I really like the looks of the Rhino (the nubs on the side), installation process, and the ability to remove rack, use rails, or use nothing. But, I like the weight capacity of Maximus-3.

But I wonder... Are the weight capacities really accurate? Is there a standard process of determining weight capacity? Are some companies ultra conservative while others not so much?

The cracking hardtops worries me. But, it looks like the cracking happens without roof racks too. So... ???

I'll probably use for 270 awning, recovery gear, maxtrax, some fuel(?), folding chairs, stuff like that.

Thanks!!
Skip

If you want to never take your hardtop off, go with the Maximus-3. The Maximus-3 has a much higher capacity that would be ideal for an RTT or heavy gear. Otherwise go with the rhino rack. The Maximus-3 is super quiet too. If you’re going to go with the Maximus-3 I’d be happy to answer questions.

 

[skipdup]

Thanks guys!

 

[skipdup]

Rhinorack order. Thanks all!

 

[STW]

just came across this Yakima bolt-through rollcage-supported rack with a 330/825 lb dynamic/static weight limit. Looks like they only have a 4door version but it's a good price.

https://yakima.com/products/ribcage...35.1859810103.1680795211-365137091.1661799777

https://www.autoblog.com/2023/04/13...eep-wranglers-can-off-road-with-a-heavy-load/

 

[Ranger1]

I went Maximus 3, has a cleaner lower profile in my opinion, and they sell ladders which match the kit. .no issue with roof cracks or anything, and it’s been on for a couple of years now. As mentioned, it’s not a breeze to take off the roof once it’s installed. But it is doable, and then you can still have the roof rack minus the roof. A 15 min job turns into an hr, plus some swearing. Completely worth it though

 

[ArmyRN]

just came across this Yakima bolt-through rollcage-supported rack with a 330/825 lb dynamic/static weight limit. Looks like they only have a 4door version but it's a good price.

https://yakima.com/products/ribcage...35.1859810103.1680795211-365137091.1661799777

https://www.autoblog.com/2023/04/13...eep-wranglers-can-off-road-with-a-heavy-load/

I saw this too. Was wondering about the cost for attaching crossbars.

 

[Badfish]

Wonder if one could use the Yakima Ribcage and still throw on a RR Pioneer platform vs the Yakima branded one?!

 

[desert runner]

I spoke to a knowledgeable rep at Rackattack and he said that you can mount Rhino towers and pioneer platform on the Yakima ribcage rails. Apparently those rails are a quasi industry norm.

 

[Vom Hoko]

just came across this Yakima bolt-through rollcage-supported rack with a 330/825 lb dynamic/static weight limit. Looks like they only have a 4door version but it's a good price.

https://yakima.com/products/ribcage...35.1859810103.1680795211-365137091.1661799777

https://www.autoblog.com/2023/04/13...eep-wranglers-can-off-road-with-a-heavy-load/

Today I installed the JL Ribcage. Working solo at pace it took me @ 4hrs. Drilling 12 holes into the HT was fun! The back brackets were a PITA to do solo, but a few curses and resets saw it through. The paper install instructions suck, but the video was a great help. I don't think Yakima has done a good job yet of explaning the various options of connecting their various tracks, towers and platforms. I reached out to support and have still not heard back from them. I ordered the LockNLoad B Platform (2-bar) and 6 TrackTowers and the LockNLoad Expansion Pack. This will provide two more connection points (i.e., 3-bar) between the tracks and platform for greater weight distribution. Not that I'm planning on really loading up with alot of weight, but any additional structural distribution will be good. Removing the HT will require unscrewing an additional 8 bolts and I expect it will be a bit finicky re-aligning when putting the HT back on, but here in the PNW, we can't go naked all that often. So I'm hoping this low profile and versatile track/platform will give us plenty of flexibility. Fingers crossed!

 

[STW]

...

Very interesting to see this option too (but still only for 4door I think). Looking forward to hear what you think of the Yakima towers and LockNLoad Expansion system when it's all together. How does it look inside?

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