Recommended Roof Rack System for 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JLU  

Question:

Expert Reply:

As a fellow Jeep owner I've got some experience with this, and the issue you're going to run into is that the hard tops on Jeep JLU and JKU are not designed to hold any weight because of their lack of internal support. As I'm sure you're aware, they're just a fiberglass shell, so your best bet is going to be starting with a RhinoRack BackBone # RRRJLB1. This kit will add mounting points for a roof rack, while reinforcing the shell of your hard top that will allow you to safely carry weight with a roof rack. If you don't go this route first you're going to be limited to around 90-lbs total weight, which may not be sufficient to carry a heavy kayak- or even multiple kayaks.

Once you've installed the BackBone system, you'll need towers and crossbars. For the towers you'll want to use the Rhino-Rack Quick Mount Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars # RRRLT600, which are compatible with the mounts that come with the BackBone system and will provide you with what you need to add crossbars. For crossbars I recommend using the 59" Rhino Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars # RRVA150B-2, which will allow you to add kayak carriers on your rack and finish out the complete kit. Since these bars don't come with metal locks included, I recommend adding Rhino Rack end caps with metal lock cores-part # RRVA-LEC4.

When it comes to carrying your kayaks, the Rhino-Rack J-Style Kayak Carrier - Fixed - Universal Mount # S510 are a great choice that give you all the features of the big name manufacturer's carriers at a more economical price. These J-style carriers will mount the Vortex Aero bars mentioned above and they come with tie down straps included, so you'll have everything you need to carry your boats right out of the box.

I've linked some informational and installation videos of these parts for you to have a look at as well.

expert reply by: Erik B

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