rhino rack "back bone" roof rack system

[Leethal]

I had no issues installing the backbone, I did use a different hex ball tool to what most will have access to though. It is a tool supplied with the Volvo Penta IPS system for changing the props, it is a Gedore tool from memory and works at a greater angle than normal hex balls. It also is a 1/2” drive tool as well.

[gwaite001]

Order the new Pioneer Platform with Backbone, part JB1237; I went for the shorter model, consisting of:

• Pioneer Platform (1928mm x 1236mm) part 52102 including part SP309 T-bolt kit to attach 52 Series Pioneer Platform to Backbone.
• Rhino-Rack Backbone 3 Base Mounting System - Prado 150, part RTPB1.

I am installing on a GX so no rails to remove, just the small covers & brackets to expose the sets of roof screw holes. Ordered from EBay seller ezicarparts. It is a drop shipment from Rhino, in my case from Sydney. Even though Rhino has it as 1 ‘delivery’ it came in 2 parts, first the platform, then a few days later the backbone. Apparently, it is standard for Rhino to (mis-)manage & ship them separately, even though they are marked as 1 of 2 & 2 of 2. And the first guy with the platform knew there was another pack back at Rhino!
This new model platform is easier to mount onto the backbone as the 5 cross members are adjustable; just find the Prado 150 measurements on Rhino website and adjust using the supplied socket and the markings on the platform. To be sure I lined up the backbone and platform on the ground first. So no holes to be drilled!
An observation, the platform mount points of the backbone seem to point down a bit before the platform is fitted. Also the black plastic strips in the roof rail grooves are not held in place once the fixed point covers and brackets are removed; so I put some silicone at the ends to hopefully hold them in place – time will tell!
The backbone is still messy to install; even with a ball end allen key it is not easy to tighten the screws as the angle is really more than 25°. The Rhino desk bound designers need to install a commercially available model and experience what they have designed & manufactured; some better located holes and/or a few degrees less angle and it would be easier. Hopefully I have tightened the backbone screws enough.
Overall, took my time and about 4 hours to install by myself.
And be aware there is a lot of cardboard to recycle especially from the platform.
Next thing to install with be a Drifta 270° awning. Already got some Kaon eyelets; Tin makes some good stuff!

[Parker]

Any more pictures of finished products for rhino backbone and platform fitted both 2128 and 1928 on 120 ??

Is the backbone available for the 120?

[daz7]

1928mm version on my 150

[alovaoz]

Any more pictures of finished products for rhino backbone and platform fitted both 2128 and 1928 on 120 ??

[axio]

Thanks baazang for the photos. 1928mm version looks better suited to my needs

[BlokeInOz]

Roksy18, I have the 1928 rack. Hopefully the attached is enough to show how far it is set back. I installed it as per the instructions. Phot doesn't seem to want to upload for some reason and I'm still tired after night shift to look in to why. (I'll see what I can do tomorrow). But the rack front is not quite half way (maybe1/3) through the bottom length of the front window (if that makes sense?)

Thanks

Roksy18

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Roksy18 now I get to see where they sit before I fit mine, look great

Cheers

[bazzang]

Roksy18, I have the 1928 rack. Hopefully the attached is enough to show how far it is set back. I installed it as per the instructions. Phot doesn't seem to want to upload for some reason and I'm still tired after night shift to look in to why. (I'll see what I can do tomorrow). But the rack front is not quite half way (maybe1/3) through the bottom length of the front window (if that makes sense?)

[BlokeInOz]

I'm in the process of getting my Pioneer platform ready to fit to my steed. I've a 1928mm. As a matter of interest I am fitting a solar panel (permanent fix)

The pioneer panel I kept from previous vehicle (not Prado) and that kit came with 3 extra cross beams.

@ bushan - you will find that the backbone system required the 3 extra cross beams as these line up with the top mounting points on the backbone. eg; front/middle/rear.

For interest sake - I would not put the Pioneer Platform directly on the roof rails (My GXL has them) the problem is you get less weight carrying capacity.
weight Capacity
1 = Backbone = 120kg
2 = 3 standard legs = 100kg
3 = stock rails = 75kg
*all these are quoted from Rhino and this includes the weight of the platform and mount if appropriate.

Also I have purchased the wind deflector, so will be interesting how that helps with load.

Will post test results once complete, but that my not be for a few weeks yet.

Cheers

[Roksy18]

Hi bazzang,

I’ve got the backbone and rhino platform and agree it is a “whooshing” sound and not a terrible high pitch sound. However, mine is a really load and highly noticeable “whooshing” sound. I’m wondering if it is because of the positioning, how far to the front or rear you have your platform. What size platform have you got and could you upload photos so I can see how yours in positioned on the roof. I’d show mine but I’ve temporarily removed it. Cheers

[axio]

Good to know cheers, is yours the 1928mm or 2128mm version? Noticed theres not much price difference between both

Trying to work out if theres any reason not to go for the 2128mm. Bigger is better?

[bazzang]

@ Axio. The sound from the backbone system is more a 'whooshing' noise and can be heard (with the windows open) when nothing is on top. When the windows are closed you really have to strain to make it out above the road noise (with ATZP3's on). No high pitch annoying sound from mine.

[agsryd]

i have been thinking of using the existing rails on the 150 or getting the backbone. after placing both on i am going with the backbone. it looks better, sits lower (i keep a thule bake carrier on top as well) and also higher load rating. now to afford the bloody kit! im awaiting on autobarn 25% off

[axio]

Can anyone comment on the wind noise of the backbone on a 150 prado?

Is the noise increase just the general 'whoosing' noise when youve got stuff on the top, or is it more of a high pitched annoying sound?

[bushan]

Hi ,
I checked my Pioneer Tray and there were already 2 of the Underside bar (http://www.rhinorack.com.au/products...ic-tabs-_43126) and then 2 bars with the legs. So, I will be removing the legs and use the backbone system.
Im not sure why the installer is insisting to get 3 extra Underside bars which are $87 each on top of the backbone,

Have you changed from legs to the backbone system?
thanks