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WORKSHOP FILE · Jeep & Modifications
A Rhino-Rack Pioneer platform gives the Jeep extra load space on the roof. The matching Backbone system connects it to the vehicle. Before buying, the platform, mountings, roof type and permitted load need to match.
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Thorsten-Voice / Piper. Sprecher Thorsten Müller. Stimmaufnahmen unter CC0. Thorsten-Voice.
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Duration: 3 minutes 27 seconds
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Alba / Piper. Alba speech corpus (2019), Cassia Valentini-Botinhao and Junichi Yamagishi, University of Edinburgh. Voice recordings licensed under CC BY 4.0 and used to train a synthetic voice. The article is by The Adventure Beyond.
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Ronnie / Piper. Stemopnamen van OHF-Voice, beschikbaar onder CC0. Stemgegevens en bron.
01 / FIELD NOTE
What is the Pioneer platform for?
With suitable mounts, equipment can be secured on the platform. That can help when it doesn't fit well in the boot or your luggage changes from trip to trip.
The setup adds weight and makes the Jeep taller. Keep garages and low clearances in mind. The rack itself also counts towards the roof load.
02 / FIELD NOTE
What does the Backbone system do?
The Backbone is designed for the specific vehicle. The matching instructions show where it mounts and what load is allowed.
Before buying, I check the model, year, roof, Backbone kit and platform. The mounting feet and their height also need to suit the setup.
03 / FIELD NOTE
Dynamic and static roof loads
Dynamic load applies while driving; static load applies while stationary. A high rating when parked doesn't mean you can drive with the same weight. Extra limits may apply off-road.
For roof load, the limits for the Jeep and complete rack system matter. I add up the platform, mounts and luggage together.
An example of different limits for different versions is in the official Rhino-Rack instructions for the RJKB1 system. It has specific guidance for the Jeep JK and off-road use. Those figures can't simply be applied to a Wrangler JL or another kit.
04 / FIELD NOTE
Plan the installation and accessories
- Compatibility: Check exact part numbers and the instructions for your vehicle.
- Total weight: Count the platform, feet, mounts and other accessories as well as the luggage.
- Securing: Use matching mounts and restraints. A slot in the platform alone doesn't secure a load.
- Everyday use: Plan access to the luggage, vehicle height and the space you actually need.
The work depends on the vehicle and kit. Follow the right instructions and get help if a step isn't clear.
05 / FIELD NOTE
When the extra space is useful
The Pioneer platform is useful if I want to carry equipment outside the Jeep. The right support system and the load limit for the complete setup are what matter.
Before putting more luggage on the roof, it's worth looking at the space inside. The Expedition Gear Cargo Shelf for the Wrangler JLU adds a second loading level in the boot.
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