Hey, I'd like to get a roof rack to keep my skis off the armrest when I hit the slopes. Anyone use a universal roof rack before, like this one:

http://www.autoworldaccessories.com/...tegory_id=1302

I'd love to get the yakima rack, but $230 is $200 more than this rack, which is 4 days of skiing, you know the deal. Would this be OK, or should I just suck it up and go for the Yakima?

Thanks guys,
KJ

 

i wouldn't trust something that cheap.. :?

best thing is to piece the yakima together vice going to the dealership and spending more money on one that's already put together as a kit...

it tends to be cheaper if you buy the parts separately and do it that way.

 

It really depends on how often you use it and how much weight goes on it.

Something like that is useful if you need to buy a 4x8 sheet of plywood once in a while, or other light loads. It will work, however, keep in mind that the weight is distributed along the roof itself, directly on the sheet metal, which can cause permanent marks in the roof.

A Yakima or other custom fit rack ties in and the pressure goes on the outer roof supports where it's less likely to cause any permanent damage.

So...

If you need to use a rack for light loads two or three times, it'll do, but if you make a habit of using a rack on a frequent basis, do it the right way.

 

Take it from a guy who used to sell racks for a living. Go with the Yakima.

While the cheapo might work, it isn't fit specifically for the xB and you're probably just asking for trouble in the long term.

I've got the Yakima, use it every day and love it. It fits great, goes on and off quick and easy and can be used for anything from skis to boats to extra stuff for long road trips. Check Craig's List and eBay for used bits (especially bars and feet) and you might be able to save some cash.

I used to work at Rack-N-Road (www.racknroad.com) and their prices are fairly competitive. Also check REI if there's one close as Yakima will sometimes discount as much as 20-30% at certain times of year.

Thanks

 

I got a Yakima and built a platform out of treated 1 x 4 boards. I connected them to the rack with u-bolts and mounted eye bolts along the sides. the platform extends over the front and back of the Yakima bars by about one foot on the front and back. I sealed it uning Thompson's waterproof. I took it camping. It owrked great. It is a versital platform and anythinh could be mounted including skis.

I have two problems. wind noise and gas mileage. So I generally keep the rack off the car and in my storage shed.

If you get the Yakima and jeep it off the car most of the time, remove the rubber feet from the rack and store the in a plastic bag to reduce oxidation.

Muchpeace,
Jerry T