Posted 3 August 2024 by Vanultra
We had the chance to collaborate with Sloan from Intrepid Camp Gear in Boulder, Colorado, for a special installation on his 60 series Toyota Land Cruiser. Sloan’s vehicle, equipped with a Geo Solo roof top tent and a Sherpa roof rack, presented a unique opportunity to put our low-profile roof top tent mounts to the test.
Preparing for the Install
Inside Intrepid's shop, we prepared to mount the Geo Solo—Intrepid’s narrow, one-man roof top tent—onto Sloan’s Sherpa roof rack. The Sherpa rack’s low-profile design provides minimal space between the tent and the roof, making it an ideal candidate for our new low-profile roof top tent mounts.
We were aware that Intrepid's tent had unique mounting rails, different from most other brands. Fortunately, we received the specifications in advance and were able to develop a custom slider assembly that seamlessly integrates with their mounting system.
The Installation Process
Our installation process differed slightly from previous setups. Instead of allowing the front mounts to move, we fixed them in place and focused on the rear mounts for movement. This change required some planning, particularly in selecting which crossbars to attach to. Ultimately, we decided to clamp onto the crossbars supported by the gutter rails, ensuring a secure and stable setup.
One lesson learned during this install: getting your measurements right before placing the tent on the roof rack is crucial. It’s much easier to make adjustments before the tent is in place.
Sloan’s Feedback: A Game-Changer for Low-Profile Roof Racks
After completing the installation, we turned to Sloan for his feedback, and his response was overwhelmingly positive. Having installed many tents on low-profile roof racks, Sloan was well aware of the challenges involved. He noted that traditional setups often require removing the fairing or dealing with tight spaces, making the process time-consuming and cumbersome.
However, with our low-profile RTT mounts, Sloan found the installation to be incredibly smooth. He was particularly impressed by how quickly and easily the tent could be attached and detached using power tools. According to Sloan, this new system could reduce the installation time to just five minutes—provided the measurements are done correctly.
Sloan did point out the unique design of our system, which features a rod running from front to rear. Initially unsure about this aspect, Sloan ultimately found it to be a worthwhile trade-off for the convenience and stability our mounts provide. He appreciated that the system allowed for easy access from the rear and was impressed by how solid and straightforward the setup was.
Addressing Common Concerns: Tent Height and Rattling
One aspect we discussed with Sloan was the one-inch rise that our mounts introduce. While some might see this as a downside, Sloan highlighted its benefits. The slight lift not only prevents the annoying rattling that often occurs when crossbars make direct contact with the tent frame, but it also creates additional space for mounting awnings and other accessories. He emphasized that this minor elevation is essential for anyone looking to maintain a quiet and smooth ride.
In his own words, Sloan described our system as "a pretty awesome solution" for low-profile roof racks. He acknowledged that while there might be some minor tweaks in the future, the current design is solid, efficient, and well-suited for the demands of overlanders.
Final Thoughts: A New Standard for RTT Mounting
Sloan’s experience and feedback underscore the effectiveness of our low-profile roof top tent mounts. By addressing common challenges—such as rattling, difficult installation, and the need for quick removal—Vanultra’s mounts provide a reliable solution for those using low-profile roof racks. Sloan’s positive reaction speaks volumes about the system’s practicality and durability, making it a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their overlanding setup.
Explore our new low-profile RTT mounts and enhance your setup today! Check out the product page here.