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At Essential 4x4, we offer a wide range of roof racks that provide additional storage space for carrying bulky or oversized items that may not fit inside your 4WD. They allow you to free up space inside your vehicle, making long journeys more comfortable for passengers.

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Roof racks are often associated with adventure and exploration. Whether you are going camping, hiking, or off-roading,  roof racks can help you carry the gear and supplies needed for your journey. They are especially useful for transporting luggage, sports equipment, camping gear, bicycles, kayaks, canoes, and other recreational or outdoor equipment.

Our 4x4 roof rack range

We aim to carry a comprehensive range of roof racks that lets you easily find one that fits your vehicle make and model - and that is perfect for your needs. Contemporary roof rack systems feature sophisticated designs that let you easily create your custom rooftop setup.

We stock products by such well known Australian brands as Yakima that have been committed to producing quality 4x4 roof racks for over 40 years. Their LockNLoad platform is well known for its rugged and durable construction. Made from lightweight but strong aluminum with superior e-coating, this outstanding flat roof rack is both sturdy and resistant to corrosion. This construction also ensures that it can withstand a variety of outdoor and weather conditions.

One of the standout features of the LockNLoad Platform is its modular design. Users can customise the platform to suit their specific needs by adding various accessories and mounts. This modularity makes it adaptable for carrying a wide range of gear, from bikes and kayaks to camping equipment and cargo boxes. 

Yakima’s innovative east-west slats are cleverly designed to enable you to carry all types of gear, while built-in perimeter channels also allow additional positions to mount your accessories.

The LockNLoad Platform is available in different sizes, allowing you to choose the dimensions that best fit your 4WD size and cargo requirements. 

Yakima also pays great attention to aerodynamics in the design of the LockNLoad Platform. This helps reduce wind noise and drag, which can improve fuel efficiency and make for a quieter ride when the platform is installed.

How to mount your 4WD roof rack

Before you start, ensure that you have all the necessary components of your roof rack system, including the crossbars, towers or feet, and any required hardware or tools. Refer to your 4WD owner's manual to check for specific instructions or guidelines related to roof rack installation.

If necessary, measure the distance between the mounting points or roof rails on your vehicle's roof. This measurement will help you properly position the crossbars to ensure they are evenly spaced and secure. Follow any guidelines provided in the roof rack's instructions for placement.

If your roof rack system includes separate towers or feet that attach to the crossbars, follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble and attach them, ensuring that they are tightened securely.

Place the crossbars on the towers or feet, aligning them with the mounting points on your vehicle's roof. Secure the crossbars using the provided hardware, which typically includes screws or bolts - then tighten the hardware to the recommended torque specifications specified in the instructions.

The next step is to ensure that the crossbars are level and evenly spaced. Double-check the alignment and make any necessary adjustments to ensure they are securely in place.

Use the provided locking mechanisms or security features (if available) to lock the crossbars in place. This helps prevent theft and ensures that the crossbars remain securely attached to the vehicle. Gently shake or push on the crossbars to check for stability - they should be firmly attached and not wobble or move excessively.

If you plan to carry specific gear or accessories  - for example, bike racks or kayak mounts - on the roof rack, follow the manufacturer's instructions for attaching these accessories to the crossbars.

Before you load any cargo or gear onto the roof rack, perform a final visual and tactile check to ensure that all components are securely in place and there are no loose fasteners.

Carefully load your cargo onto the roof rack, making sure to distribute the weight evenly and within the recommended weight capacity of the rack. Secure the load using appropriate tie-downs and straps.

Always refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your roof rack system, as installation procedures may vary. Additionally, if you're not comfortable with the installation process, it's always best to seek professional assistance or have the roof rack installed by a certified technician to ensure safety and security.

So, why wait? Don’t just Google “roof racks near me” -  make your choice from our extensive selection today.