Fabricated K5 roof racks

[BlaznbyU]

Hello, I have an '87 K-5 that I've been working on the past several years. I have basically completed most of the build expect I have a question regarding fabricated (strong) roof racks. In the winter I get out on snowy/icy roads to access late season fishing spots and until now have towed my small aluminum boat over the terrain using a set of bolt on skis I made up. This worked but was hard to turn around and such. What I'm looking for is ideas on a roof rack that is strong enough to support several hundred pounds, be basically water tight and be supported enough not to crack or damage the fiberglass top. I was hoping to stay away from full cages and just do something to support both under and on top of the cab. Any ideas, photos or opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.......

 

[Stomis]

Well as you can see pirate wasnt exactly your best route for answer on this question. BUT the fact still stands that your going to be hard pressed to find a strong load bearing roof rack to support serious weight without it tying to the frame/floor some how.

I'm sure someone will chime in to tell you what a top mounted rack is limited to in weight but I'm going to say a couple hundred pounds probably wouldnt phase it. As far as it getting cracks in it with weight on the top, while wheeling it, good luck.

 

[BlaznbyU]

Ya unfortunately hadn't heard of you guys first. I figured I was going to have to support it to the floor/frame somehow, that's what I was trying to see if others had done something similar or if it was even necessary. I have a basic plan on building up the top portion of the rack but was looking to see what the structural integrity of the fiberglass top was. Thanks....

 

[Stomis]

Ya unfortunately hadn't heard of you guys first. I figured I was going to have to support it to the floor/frame somehow, that's what I was trying to see if others had done something similar or if it was even necessary. I have a basic plan on building up the top portion of the rack but was looking to see what the structural integrity of the fiberglass top was. Thanks....

You could also go the jeep style route with external bars going to the frame. Would offer lots of support but would require a bender and the tubes coming up the side of the body.