| Author | Message | ||
     SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 835 Registered: 06-2002 |
I think these were discussed before, but I couldn't find the thread. Any feedback? I'm been considering it as a reasonable ($$) alternative to LR Genuine. They don't have a load bearing weight though. Is that a concern. I don't think I'll be putting a tent up there, just pelican cases, water cans, etc. Just to get gear out of the back of the Rover to make space for my dog!! | ||
| Bob Shinn (Bshinn) Member Username: Bshinn Post Number: 103 Registered: 01-2004 |
I called them & they told me that their racks are built to the same tubing specs as the Safety Devices (factory LR) racks. 1" OD x.065 wall tubing, so the load capacity should be the same. They also told me that the raingutter strength is the limiting factor. My only concern is weather or not it will acccept the Off Road tuff products flooring. If it will, then it's what i'll be buying. I also like the options available, hi-lift mount ect. Bob | ||
| Bob Shinn (Bshinn) Member Username: Bshinn Post Number: 104 Registered: 01-2004 |
P.S. Northwest, If you're listening I just wish you made the lower, (non sunroof) version also. Bob | ||
| John Cinquegrana (Johnc) Senior Member Username: Johnc Post Number: 626 Registered: 07-2002 |
Bob, they DO have a lower version .... | ||
| Bob Shinn (Bshinn) Member Username: Bshinn Post Number: 105 Registered: 01-2004 |
Just double checked their website, & only see one listed for the D1 & D2. Do you just specify which you want when you order? Is it an exact copy of the Safety Devices rack, ie: will the Tuff prod floor fit? | ||
| gil stevens (Gil) Senior Member Username: Gil Post Number: 425 Registered: 02-2002 |
I saw one in person, and it was ghastly. The welds were frigtening and the middle feet were so far off spec that they didnt reach the rain gutter, or the point with which they are suppossed to mount. The guy took it off after month or so because it started to corrode. I have nothing against NWP, and this rack may have been built on a "bad" day.. but after seeing it, my only advice is you get what you pay for. | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 840 Registered: 06-2002 |
Hmmm, that's more of what I wanted to hear Gil. I will probably hold out for a used genuine rack, but was tempted by the good deal. Is there anyone on here that actually OWNS one?! | ||
| Glenn Guinto (Glenn) Senior Member Username: Glenn Post Number: 835 Registered: 02-2002 |
Sus, be on the lookout for a used genuine safety devices rack. Specifically a local used one. You gotta remember, shipping something as big and bulky as the roof rack from the NW US to VA will not be cheap. So, factor that plus the price of the rack, you might not be far off from a genuine one. I lucked out on mine since I found one locally for less than $500 about 3 years ago. They're out there, just be patient my young padawan....  Glenn P.S. Another option is, look around on local used car dealerships, you might stumble on one that has a roof rack. You can then offer the sales person to buy just the rack. He might sell the Disco faster without the rack so it's a win-win for both. Just MHO. | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 841 Registered: 06-2002 |
Awww....Glenn called me a padawan....sounds cute but what does that mean?!  I agree. Shipping to VA is about $200 extra! I'll look around! | ||
| Adam Ross (Discodriveradam) Member Username: Discodriveradam Post Number: 226 Registered: 01-2003 |
My brother owns the NWP rack. I don't like it very much. I'm not very knowledgeable about this, but the coating on the rack, whether it's paint or powdercoating, just sucks. It's really glossy, unlike the flat finish of the SD rack. It looks cheap. That coating also doesn't hold up very well. We've been down the same trails for about a year, and the condition of his rack compared to my genuine one is a stark contrast. Mine shows almost no wear from the trees while his is scratched all over and starting to rust. Also, the feet that attach it to the gutters don't look very nice at all. I am not sure about their strength, but they are still ugly. But that point could be moot as I have heard that they have a new design for the feet, which closely resembles that of the SD rack. And like Gil hinted at, they don't seem to fit very well. When my brother got his, it was so narrow it wouldn't even fit over the roof. We had to bend it out a bit make it clear. I think Gil summed it up quite well: you get what you pay for. Overall, I am nowhere close to impressed with it, and I consider it to be a cheap alternative considerably lagging behind the quality of the SD rack. So if I were you, I would pass and do as Glenn says and really hunt around for an SD rack. | ||
| Glenn Guinto (Glenn) Senior Member Username: Glenn Post Number: 836 Registered: 02-2002 |
LOL... Ever watch star wars? | ||
| mark gomez (Mark) Member Username: Mark Post Number: 60 Registered: 05-2003 |
I have one, and I agree... you get what you pay for. The rack itself is pretty strong. The paint was more like primer and needed to be painted before even putting it on. I think they are starting to powder coat them now, but I have'nt seen one with the powder coat. The feet are ok to me but could have been made to fit better. It's the stick welding that I was upset about when I first got the rack. No professional welder would be proud of it. I had to grind them down a bit but its still not as nice as the SD. That said, my rack is in a fab shop getting aluminum tread plate flooring cut out then its off for sandblasting and powder coating. It's just hard to wait and try to find a used SD rack. Then again, if I did, I probally would'nt be going through the hassle of sand blasting and powder coating. I learned alot about powder coating at the shop. Apparently there are different grades and ratings for indoor and outdoor use. I don't know what NWP is using for the newer versions. | ||
| Chris Vestal (Conceptvision) New Member Username: Conceptvision Post Number: 10 Registered: 07-2003 |
I have to agree with Mark. I purchased mine this summer. I too was shocked at the quality of the welds. My friends had a good laugh when they saw the welds too. I put up with it only for the cheaper price. After 1 day in sleet/rain, all the forward facing paint came off!! I planed on powder coating anyway, but not this quick. Mine was painted without prep sanding. Luckily I was at a friends machine shop when I went to install it. Few of the feet had to be bent to avoid scraping paint off my roof!! and I had to elongate some of the "clamp" screw openings. The clamps look like nothing more than angle iron cut to leave enough to hold on the rails. They were just cut and drilled very inconstantly with the stock pitted steel finish on them. I took the time to grind them. I feel sorry for anyone who purchases one of the racks with no machining / finishing resources. The most disappointing thing for me was the inside opening width. I really use this rack. The first time I flipped a piece of plywood on it it was a 1/2" short of swallowing it!!! Just a 1/2"!! Every time I have to strap plywood down sitting on top of the rails on one side. Most will not notice this, but I did. Guess this might have been my fault for not asking first. Solution, back to my buddy with the machine shop to splice in a piece of tubing and bending. With all that being said. I am guess I get what I paid for and some of the alignment problems could have been created by damage in shipping. (but the crate was not damaged in any way) Strength is good overall. I have walked on it with no fear. Again: I feel sorry for anyone who gets this rack without machining / finishing resources. | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1141 Registered: 02-2002 |
Perhaps NWP has taken the complaints on Discoweb and improved their rack. Sus, perhaps you should try it out and let us know how it goes. | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 17 Registered: 08-2003 |
I've got one coming in within a few days from NWP for my DII. I'll give as thorough a review as possible, and provide some pics as well. If you can hold out, I'm more than happy to share the info. | ||
| Victor (Vabiro) Member Username: Vabiro Post Number: 219 Registered: 10-2003 |
David, It would be great to get some close-ups of the infamous clamps and welds. Thanks Victor | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 18 Registered: 08-2003 |
will do. it will be a week or two, it's on the truck from Oregon to Atlanta. | ||
| Leigh Mikolajczyk (Leigh_m) Member Username: Leigh_m Post Number: 61 Registered: 01-2004 |
Looking forward to your review of a new northwestparts roof rack. I am also looking for a saftey device rack as well but am getting impatient. | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 20 Registered: 08-2003 |
It's still in transit. It's quite a ways from Portland to Atlanta. | ||
| Leigh Mikolajczyk (Leigh_m) Member Username: Leigh_m Post Number: 64 Registered: 01-2004 |
did you get the new low profile one they have pictured? | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 21 Registered: 08-2003 |
Nope, I actually need it for carrying things... The low profile one looks like it only has a couple of inches between the top/bottom rails. | ||
| Ryan Graham (Ryangraham) Member Username: Ryangraham Post Number: 51 Registered: 01-2004 |
I've also been looking at the NWP rack. It looks good in their pictures anyway. Cant wait to see if anything has improved. | ||
| Jeff Mclaird (Granitedisco) Senior Member Username: Granitedisco Post Number: 281 Registered: 08-2003 |
Wonder if they'd ship one un-welded? That way you could weld it up yourself and get it powder coated or galvanized yourself. Jeff | ||
| Vaden (Vaden72) New Member Username: Vaden72 Post Number: 27 Registered: 12-2003 |
The NWP rack is different in the front than the Genuine Rack. Take a look for yourself. In the front, the light bar is higher off the rover with the NWP than it is with the original. From the side the NWP rack looks horrible. The feet don't look as good square but I figure they had to make it a bit different than the Genuine so they didn't get completely yelled at - lol - I am in the market for a D1 Adventure rack and have been for the last year! But I want the real thing so I am not embarrassed about it. I mean it is going on my rover so it has to look good. I have no idea about the welds all I have heard is that they are a terrible sight to see. There are tons of bad comments about NWP on this site in the bulletin board from the past. When I investigated them I read it all and it really turned me away from them. It may be worth your time to do a search and read it all - Id rather keep my $569 plus shipping and still have my dignity while Im in my rover! -vaden | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 854 Registered: 06-2002 |
I never said they were the same rack, nor did I say I was going to buy one. And I'm not embarrassed about wanting a genuine rack OR considering a viable and less expensive option. I think NWP has tried to make something that could be a welcome alternative for many people. I HAVE done searches about the racks and have read what people have posted. I was simply looking for some updated information. Let's put it this way, Vaden...I certainly won't bash someone for purchasing one and I'd be interested to see it in person. I will probably wait for a genuine rack, but I'm always interested in discussion. Susannah (who never LOST her dignity) | ||
| Ryan Graham (Ryangraham) Member Username: Ryangraham Post Number: 60 Registered: 01-2004 |
I thought the discussion was centered around whether or not NWP had improved their rack with their new design or if it was the same rack everyone had problems with in the past. I also though that David was going to give us a thorough review once his arrived. Vaden if your are suggesting that any of us have less dignity in our rovers or that we are cheap because we want to put a $600 rack on our 40 thousand dollar rigs instead of waiting a year to find a cheap adventure rack then you are way off base and making enemies fast. | ||
| Shawn McKenzie (Shawn) Member Username: Shawn Post Number: 216 Registered: 10-2002 |
I've got 11 months on my NWP 3" lift springs that several folks here mocked as "POS springs that WILL sag". No sag so far. And I don't have to use spacers (seeing spring spacers on Rovers reminds me of extended leaf spring shackles on a K5 Blazer) ;-) I too have seen pictures of booger welds on the NWP racks. Their QC may have improved. Let's let David tell us when he has the chance. | ||
| Chris Vestal (Conceptvision) New Member Username: Conceptvision Post Number: 19 Registered: 07-2003 |
Thanks to Vaden, I must make this comment. When I purchased my NWP rack in Sept'03. I had a 2000 disco. I traded it in just last week on a '03. Here is my point. If I had a SD rack, my gutter would be all mangled thanks to the clamps that squish the thin decorative metal covering the rain gutter. After removing my NWP rack, I simply had to wipe off the grit. Not a trace. Some might say the NWP is not clamping properly... Not so in this case. Though looking a little rough before I cleaned them up, these clamps work great without causing permanent damage to my DII. I use the heck out of this rack and I am not worried about the strength. " embarrassed about it"? NO. I will proudly show my Firestone Destination M/Ts to you (when they come in) with the $ I saved on the NWP rack. | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1174 Registered: 02-2002 |
 | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 23 Registered: 08-2003 |
Rack gets here on Friday. It's a long way from Portland to Atlanta. As of last night, it was in Oklahoma. | ||
| Rob Davison (Nosivad_bor) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Nosivad_bor Post Number: 1737 Registered: 02-2003 |
I agree with Vaden. It's a dignity thing you wouldn't understand. rd | ||
| Steve Cooper (Scrover) Senior Member Username: Scrover Post Number: 751 Registered: 09-2002 |
I'd be more embarrassed about the FD M/Ts. Nobody will notice the rack for flying tread lugs  SC | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 856 Registered: 06-2002 |
Good grief. This is what I DON'T like about D-web. Too many opinions that cloud the discussion and/or judgement of posters. I have my own opinions about what looks good, as do you all; I have waited to make any major changes to my vehicle until I can afford to 'do them right' persay. I believe that you certainly get what you pay for in relation to almost all retail products/merchandise. BUT, I am certainly open to other people's way of doing things...if we, as a group, attempt to avoid dealerships because of their unreasonable pricing and overpriced genuine parts, should we complain about saving a few pennies in another area? I think if I'm cheap enough to do my own work on the truck (albeit with good/best quality parts), I might be cheap enough to buy a 'knock off' rack. I say might....I buy expensive clothes, accessories and other items, so I obviously believe in getting something that will last...but it never hurts to ask. David, I'm interested in seeing the rack pictures when you receive the product. Everyone else: if you know of a genuine used rack at a reasonable price somewhere near Virginia...let me know. (stepping off the soapbox) S | ||
| Rob Davison (Nosivad_bor) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Nosivad_bor Post Number: 1739 Registered: 02-2003 |
sus, have you ever seen my truck? there are only a few pictures of it on discoweb and i didn't take them. there are few pictures of my truck because i am not proud of itand i don't want to imply that i am happy with what i am driving. I don't pretend that it looks nice, i don't claim it to be a good offroader because i wouldn't know i've never taken it offroad because I am afraid of breaking something and upsetting the balance. This balance is what needs fixed before i am willing to break more things offroad. I respect the fact that you disagree with me and I'm happy that you took the time to publicly state it on this thread. If gives the vast amount of people reading thisanother side to the coin. My motivation in saying what i say is that i don't want people junking up there truck. I realize it's their truck and "to each their own" but if i am able to convince someone through this website to not junk up there truck then I'm going to state my opinion again and again and again. And like wise you can disagree again and again and again. I am relentless in promoting Quality. the rack if someone were to come on here and say the NWP rack is shit but they NEED a rack for practical reasons. then hell, go ahead and buy it i don't care, but don't claim it's as good as the SD adventure rack. If it were me that purchased it i would use the NWP rack until i found a used SD adventure rack and then dump my POS NWP rack, which by the way might be the cats ass with these new welds and such. It's when people lower their standards that the cancer begins. It's happening all over america. If you are shopping at Walmart then you'll probably find the value of buying the NWP rack. I know there are poor people out there that can't afford more than Walmart, but they should not think that it's the best stuff. once this mindset creeps in then you no longer strive for the best. why work harder or more hour's to have the nice furniture when can get this plywood shit at Walmart, it's just as good. Being content isn't always a good thing. Rob | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1175 Registered: 02-2002 |
Steve, he's probably going for that "good from far..." look. | ||
| Blue (Blue) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Blue Post Number: 1406 Registered: 04-2003 |
hell, even my poor little Disco has a genuine SD rack (it's stacked against the wall, behind the crumpled hood)....LOL  | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 858 Registered: 06-2002 |
Rob, I wasn't ACTUALLY disagreeing with you. And I've never said anything bad about your truck....just to clarify. If I were to buy one of these racks, provided the quality was not up to the standards of the genuine one, I too would use it while continuing to look for the original SD rack. Again, I believe you get what you pay for and I've never assumed the quality of a rack offered for approximately $1000 less is the same. How is it that I am now in question? (Sorry to be so defensive, but I've been through 2 horrible meetings at work today) | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1177 Registered: 02-2002 |
I disagree with both Rob and Sus. If you waste your money on the NWP rack, you've put yourself $570 farther away from the coveted Safety Devices rack. I'd rather not have a rack than own some knockoff rack. And not just any knockoff, a poorly manufactured knockoff. So, you may I ask who I agree with? I agree with Vaden. | ||
| Justin Kurosaki (Kurosaki) Member Username: Kurosaki Post Number: 58 Registered: 02-2004 |
Hmmm.... I guess I need to ask this question then since everyone feels that "genuine" is better. Do I get the knock roof rack ladder for just $99 or get the real deal for 70 dollars more? Granted it will be used for my hannibal rack (I sold the "coveted" SD rack). -justin | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1180 Registered: 02-2002 |
You sold the SD rack for a Hannibal rack? Get the knockoff ladder. | ||
| Justin Kurosaki (Kurosaki) Member Username: Kurosaki Post Number: 60 Registered: 02-2004 |
Yeah, the SD is probably the coolest looking rack out there but it was way too loud... Even with the flooring it sounded like a 747 at highway speeds (anything above 50mph). Maybe I just drive too fast.... I purchased the hannibal rack mainly to go with the hannibal roof tent (and soon to be awning) but I've noticed that it hardly makes any noise. I admit though, the SD rack looks better (although the feet do f*ck up the rain rail!). -justin | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1181 Registered: 02-2002 |
Justin, that wind noise is nothing 4 Hella 4000s on the SD rack can't fix. | ||
| Aaron Richardet (Draaronr) Senior Member Username: Draaronr Post Number: 518 Registered: 09-2002 |
why not just get a ladder from home depot for the hannibal? sorry couldn't resist | ||
| Justin Kurosaki (Kurosaki) Member Username: Kurosaki Post Number: 61 Registered: 02-2004 |
So if 4 hella's will fix the rack noise, how many hella's will it take to fix the noise from the 285/75's and 3" lift!? ;). -justin | ||
| Justin Kurosaki (Kurosaki) Member Username: Kurosaki Post Number: 62 Registered: 02-2004 |
Not to highjack the thread (probably too late for that!), but has anyone purchased a knock off ladder? Is the quality and construction the same as the original? | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 859 Registered: 06-2002 |
Oh man...next we will have to go through "are Hella 500s a cheap alternative (yes, I know the wattage is lower and size is smaller) to Hella 4000s?" I'm forfeiting from the thread I started... | ||
| Leigh Mikolajczyk (Leigh_m) Member Username: Leigh_m Post Number: 67 Registered: 01-2004 |
I am looking forward to Davids review of the Northwest rack. I also have a lead on a SD rack that I am following up on. If I am successful geting the SD is there anything that can be done so the feet do not mess up the gutters | ||
| Justin Kurosaki (Kurosaki) Member Username: Kurosaki Post Number: 63 Registered: 02-2004 |
Not really short of making your own clamps. Honestly, if you know you are going to keep the rack for the life of the truck then the only damage to the rails will be under the feet. No one will ever see it until you remove the rack. And even then it is just to the plastic rail which is easily replaced. Unless you really overtighten the legs, the metal rail should be ok. -justin | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1182 Registered: 02-2002 |
This clamp stuff is just a bunch of BS. The gutter itself does not get bent or deform with use. Instead it's just a piece of plastic that covers the gutters. This is what gets deformed. You can't even see the deformation when the rack is installed. Moreover, the piece of plastic is very easily replaced. Seriously, how often do you plan on taking off your rack? Why is a replacable piece of plastic even a concern? I plan on replacing that piece of plastic in the event I ever get rid of the rack. | ||
| Shawn McKenzie (Shawn) Member Username: Shawn Post Number: 220 Registered: 10-2002 |
Craig, the logical inconsistencies in your last post are amazing. You say you are all about quality, fit and finish. You have mocked a lot of posters on accessory choices you deem inferior. If I ran visible lighting wiring I have a POS truck that you wouldn't cross the street on piss on if it was on fire. Yet
is wholly acceptable? I think the Safety Devices rack is a sharp rack, but if the mounting design is inferior to the "poorly manufactured knockoff" NWP, what gives? If I posted pics of a new bumper design that caused damage to the grill, you'd scream to high heaven it was a laughingstock as it was so poorly designed. Why is the SD rack damaging the body different? | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1186 Registered: 02-2002 |
The SD rack doesn't damage the body. It deforms a replaceable piece of plastic that covers the body. This deformation is not even visible when the rack is installed. If you had one you would know this. | ||
| Blue (Blue) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Blue Post Number: 1415 Registered: 04-2003 |
I took my SD rack off to fit my truck in my garage...I didn't notice any damage... I want to see close-up pics of the superior NWP angle iron clamps...LOL | ||
| Paul D. Morgan (V22guy) Dweb Lounge Member Username: V22guy Post Number: 2617 Registered: 02-2002 |
Susannah, Just a little while ago you were looking for tires and stated you didn't have money for a lift. Scratch the idea of a cheap rack, and buy that lift. Deep down inside, you want a lift and bigger tires.
Actually a 747 is very quiet at freeway speeds. It's take-off speeds that it truly get loud. | ||
| Rob Davison (Nosivad_bor) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Nosivad_bor Post Number: 1747 Registered: 02-2003 |
Koby is a little stoned. If you need to eat you dont get picky. If you need a rack you dont get picky. If you you have a choice then fine, get picky. Please don't pretend that you are eating gourmet is all i am saying I'm not aware of the Rack feet deformations. it might be the installer that is doing the damage. rd | ||
| John E. King, Jr. (Cadet007) Member Username: Cadet007 Post Number: 52 Registered: 02-2003 |
This is about the most "high school" thread I have ever read. "You shop at Walmart....ewwwww." What a load of crap! Grow up people! I have NWP rack. I had it shipped to Alaska because it was closer than any other racks and it looks good to me. If it will last in Alaska it will last anywhere. Besides, does it affect the overall performance of the Rover? I think some people might want to get their noses out of the air...if it rains they're going to drown. | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1189 Registered: 02-2002 |
Rob, it may be a Disco2 thing with the clamps. Also, picking a rack is hardly like needing to eat. Nobody will die from not having a rack. | ||
| Adam Ross (Discodriveradam) Member Username: Discodriveradam Post Number: 244 Registered: 01-2003 |
Actually, yes it does. | ||
| Kennith P. Whichard III (Kennith) Senior Member Username: Kennith Post Number: 419 Registered: 05-2002 |
I have heard much about the drip rails being deformed by roof racks. Roof racks loaded down with all manner of expedition equipment and jerry cans, on Land Rovers being driven over corrugated hard packed roads for miles. Anyone can see that distributing a load along a platform is better than stetting it over several points. One of the purposes of that silly plastic trim is just that, to be constricted against the actual drip rail to give the feet a firmer hold and eliminate a serious rust point. Keeping that in mind, it can and should be slightly deformed upon the installation of said roof rack. Over time, however, one may find that as things need tightning, more and more deformation will occur. Who cares? That's what it's there for. For heavier loads, like those you may encounter on expedition in flat territory, racks, like Hannibal, are made with full length runners for feet. Around town and on the occasional weekend trail ride, however, it's merits are nearly unnoticible. On the topic of when and what to purchase, I personally like to wait until I can do things the best possible way, but sometimes neccisity outweighs logical purchasing decisions, as anyone who has traveled anywhere should be able to attest to. Cheers, Kennith | ||
| Erik Olson (Jon) Senior Member Username: Jon Post Number: 610 Registered: 02-2002 |
I know a way to stop the gutter deformation debate once and for all. | ||
| Kyle Van Tassel (Kyle) Moderator Username: Kyle Post Number: 912 Registered: 11-2002 |
The NWP rack is pretty crappy from what I have seen. Its not about having your nose in the air. Its about crap. Crap smells like crap no matter what the angle your nose is in... And yes , it is about performance. If you arent using the rack for anything aside from looks you get from the general public then the NWP rack more then gets it done. They dont know any different anyway. Lets not get carried away with the "Alaska" BS please. A pouser rack is a pouser rack. Doesnt matter where its at..... Now do any of the NWP defenders wanna go back and forth with me on the issue ? Rob , shuddup | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 28 Registered: 08-2003 |
I'll post pics tomorrow night. I didn't intend to go back and forth with anyone, because I frankly don't give a rat's patooty. However, is it a poser rack because it's not stamped with the LR emblem? or because one or more you've seen in the past couldn't hold water, much less stuff? The rack appears to be pretty solid (I'll know tomorrow). the 'new' feet 'appear' to be much better than the older ones. What about bearmach racks? patriot? hannibal? all posers? would it still be a poser rack if some industrious metal fabricator decided to make his/her own for their own needs? Much the same way my grandfather did driving across Africa in the 50's? i think his was made from plumbing pipe and scrap lumber and probably held together with savanna grass. (to believe his campfire stories ;) ) To each his/her own. I'm not defending the NWP rack (I haven't seen the new one yet, it gets delivered tomorrow), however, I do defend my right to at least try it. If it's made well, will stand up to what I want it to stand up to, won't damage my vehicle any more than any other rack (I've got 1500 bucks in Yakima equipment for my myriad of kayaks, bikes, carriers, etc for two past vehicles), then hey, I'm 500 bucks closer to my rovertym or aedofab bumper (reviews on aedofab welcome). If it's a POS, then I'll call Andy and work it out. He's been quite responsive on my questions - even when I asked him (after he had shipped my rack) if I could post pics of it on Dweb. So, I'll post as many pics as I can tomorrow night. That will probably be the best information (even proof) of whether the rack is good or bad quality and acceptable or unacceptable for whatever purposes it is intended for. But until someone else can show me pics of the CURRENT rack with the relatively new feet, new powdercoating, and by the new fabricator (Andy outsources this stuff, as I understand it), then wouldn't it just make sense to wait for a current, objective review, rather than get everyone's backs up about something so darn trivial? that's my 2c. I'm done until I post the pics tomorrow night. have fun ranting. | ||
| Kyle Van Tassel (Kyle) Moderator Username: Kyle Post Number: 914 Registered: 11-2002 |
LR dont make em so it wouldnt be stamped with that. HOWEVER , there have been many coments and I have seen quite a few pics of these things. There is nothing worse then ripping off a design and then doing it poorly. Atleast improve it in some way.... | ||
| R. B. Bailey (Rover50987) Senior Member Username: Rover50987 Post Number: 782 Registered: 07-2002 |
I have an SD rack and I really like the looks and functionality - once I figured out the flooring solution. But, I had to bend the feet to get it on my truck without scratching paint, and I have never been able to get the feet fully clamped down, the long screws that go straight up into the feet just do not go in. I have never seen a NWP rack, but I have to say, they look a lot better than the Atlantic British knock off! Can't quite put my finger on it, but just looking at the photos - those things is ugly! And NWP is now powdering their racks. BTW, I still tow and load my truck up pretty heavily - 1000 lbs of cement the other day - and no sag in my NWP 2" springs yet! | ||
| Leigh Mikolajczyk (Leigh_m) Member Username: Leigh_m Post Number: 68 Registered: 01-2004 |
What did you use for flooring? Leigh | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 861 Registered: 06-2002 |
I'm only going to address the one person that has written directly to me: Paul, I'm getting bigger tires (245/75-16) , in the All Terrain and will see about the lift in the near future. Rack was just a QUESTION...I will wait to buy one, of any brand. Cheers to all...enjoy your 'discussion'! | ||
| Paul D. Morgan (V22guy) Dweb Lounge Member Username: V22guy Post Number: 2621 Registered: 02-2002 |
Susannah, Coming to Uwharrie, April 23-25? If so, we'll have a rack conversation while looking at all the vehicles. Paul | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 862 Registered: 06-2002 |
Paul, I'm not sure yet about NC. I hadn't realized it was so soon...we are doing a ROAV event in May, but hadn't planned much else until then. Can I run Uwharrie stock (with new tires! )? | ||
| Jake Hartley (Jake) Senior Member Username: Jake Post Number: 252 Registered: 03-2002 |
A few things I have learned by living so freaking long: 1. The most expensive article is not always the best 2. You sometimes get what you pay for That paradox being said, regarding any load carrying devices, i.e. racks, the real issue comes down to ability to carry a load. If a rack has crappy, bird doo welds, one could suspect poor penetration and or porosity. However, you can also get a nice smooth weld with similar disfunctions. Since few of us here will ever throw out the dollars to do radiographic inspection of welds on a roof rack, it goes back to function. If NWP racks fall apart, then they have a bad product and people won't be buying them much longer. Product improvement will most likely come (mounting feet & finish) if they want to keep selling them. Just remember, it is not a SD rack and you didn't pay an SD price for it. Like most items it is a compromise. Kyle, I seldom disagree with you, but I don't much care if it is a knockoff of the SD rack, very few auto products are not derivative in some fashion. I don't particularly like the look of the weld and finish on the NWP racks I have seen, but that might not stop me from buying one. There seems to be a dearth of ability for lots of people on this board to think outside the box. If a Disco is not festooned with the "proper" kit, then obviously the owner is not with the program. I have news for you guys: I have had Rovers for over 30 years and until recently thought that most Rover owners were innovative and free thinkers, but when I read some of the elitist, preppy, "my rides better than yours because my lights cost more" CRAP I see here, it makes me wonder. Modify your vehicle safely, as you see fit, for your purpose: if that means a certain part or a certain level of cost then so be it. To do anything else makes one a poseur and a sheep. By the way Blue, WTF happened to your Disco? | ||
| Greg P. (Gparrish) Senior Member Username: Gparrish Post Number: 1599 Registered: 11-2003 |
With regards to a DII and SD rack, I have not replaced the plastic gutter rails on mine yet and there are definately impressions from where the feet were clamped. It's not a big deal to replace the plastic, and I think it ran me about $60 for both the last time I did it up in Philly. However, as prices down in SW Florida are about 2 to 3 times what they were in Philly, I haven't decided that there is truly enough merit to justify spending that money for a few clamp marks. One thing I did on my SD rack though was replace the bolts in the clamps with hex head stainless bolts. Seemed to cause a little less rust and were much easier to tighten and remove than the allen key bolts that came with it. I've never seen a NWP rack, so no comment on it. | ||
| Shawn McKenzie (Shawn) Member Username: Shawn Post Number: 221 Registered: 10-2002 |
Well said David. I didn't buy a Jeep because I wanted something different. Now I find folks here (Kyle and Koby on this thread, but they're not alone) who maintain there is only one 'right way' to build up a Rover. Safety Devices Hella Detroit Genuine ladder BFG MT's Genuine seat covers OME springs etc, etc There is NOTHING WRONG with these parts. But they are what everyone else uses. I bought a Rover because I like to do things differently. | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1193 Registered: 02-2002 |
Shawn, you are wrong. A vast majority of people on this board do not use the parts you listed. | ||
| Paul D. Morgan (V22guy) Dweb Lounge Member Username: V22guy Post Number: 2623 Registered: 02-2002 |
Sus, Yes you can. There are plenty of trails at Uwharrie that your vehicle will do well on. The great thing about Uwharrie as compared to MAR; you are allowed camp fires at UWH. Check out www.carolinarovers.org. They are a great group of folks. Paul | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 31 Registered: 08-2003 |
Rack installed. Perceptions: 1) shipping - on time 2) packaging - robust 3) condition on delivery - excellent 4) installation - breeze (1/2" socket, two people, fit right on with no issues) 5) gripes - missing one bolt (however, with a 3 year old and a 2 year old in attendance, I'm fairly certain it was probably there when opened) 6) impression - very sturdy (held my 250lb 6'3" person with no issue) 7) welds - I'm not a metal fabricator. I have no idea. they held me. They could stand with a bit more finishing, but my assumption is that would weaken them, but what do I know. I have no idea what the welds on an SD rack look like at 1 foot distance. 8) finish - excellent 9) disposition - not sending it back. pics so you can make your own determination Here are the first of the pics       | ||
| Leigh Mikolajczyk (Leigh_m) Member Username: Leigh_m Post Number: 69 Registered: 01-2004 |
Looks pretty good | ||
| Todd Nash (Nash) Member Username: Nash Post Number: 46 Registered: 02-2003 |
I agree with Leigh. Of course, I'm one of the "unwashed masses" and likely to sully my Disco with such things. Really though, I may hold out for a Hannibal rack. I'd like the flat surface, instead of the bilevel one. Unless NWP or someone else makes such? | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1194 Registered: 02-2002 |
How about some hi-res pics? | ||
| Curtis N (Curtis) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Curtis Post Number: 1282 Registered: 05-2002 |
Looks nice. I would definately like to see some pics of the welds. As long as they fishmouthed the end right and sealed the entire mating surface with a decent bead, it should hold up fine. It is good to see another option to a rack that has to be shipped from England. | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1195 Registered: 02-2002 |
Curtis, As the saying goes: "good from far..." | ||
| Curtis N (Curtis) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Curtis Post Number: 1283 Registered: 05-2002 |
LOL - I agree. that and the fact that I hate roof racks to begin with would be my only hesitation. I guess I should stay out of this foray | ||
| David Stephens (David_stephens) New Member Username: David_stephens Post Number: 32 Registered: 08-2003 |
Here's a couple more, from the same batch, but cropped to focus on the welds. I'll do some more this afternoon of other welds. What does "fishmouthed the end" mean? As far as I can tell all of the surfaces are mated, and all are with bead (I have no idea of the difference between a "decent" bead and an "indecent" bead. Are there any other particular shots that anyone wants? I can do some more this afternoon of other weld points. Looks good close up as well.   | ||
| Jeff Mclaird (Granitedisco) Senior Member Username: Granitedisco Post Number: 295 Registered: 08-2003 |
Hi David - I think it looks fine. It's a roof rack. I'm one of the unwashed masses too. Unfortunately I don't have my oem 'Land Rover" driving gloves made from genuine llama scrotum. FWIW I'm probably going with the extended Patriot rack - only because I like the idea of the swing out ladder. But I would definitely consider the NWP rack if I wanted to maintain the roofline with the rack. regards Jeff | ||
| mark gomez (Mark) Member Username: Mark Post Number: 69 Registered: 05-2003 |
The new style clamps look much better than the old ones. | ||
| Kyle Van Tassel (Kyle) Moderator Username: Kyle Post Number: 918 Registered: 11-2002 |
They should look like this http://www.roversolutions.com/therack/rack043.jpg And no one said it had to be safety devices. I simply said that if you are going to rip something off , atleast improve it... As for you all trying to make an argument about us saying you should get all "Land Rover" equipment. Well , its bullshit.. You looked at my truck lately ? What that tells me is that you think you can only get quality from the dealer.. Which is also bullshit. HOWEVER , it will cost you .. | ||
| Jake (Alpineski) New Member Username: Alpineski Post Number: 14 Registered: 03-2004 |
I like the look of the rack, it seems like a good rack from the photos. I don't have any information on who makes them. Can somebody point me in the right direction? NO, I want info on the NWP roof rack. Like a website or something. How to see more pics of the rack. Thanks, | ||
| Jeff Mclaird (Granitedisco) Senior Member Username: Granitedisco Post Number: 298 Registered: 08-2003 |
www.northwestparts.com regards Jeff | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1199 Registered: 02-2002 |
www.wannabe-ripoff-poseur-rack.com.org | ||
| Jeff Mclaird (Granitedisco) Senior Member Username: Granitedisco Post Number: 300 Registered: 08-2003 |
Koby - think your link is dead | ||
| Ryan Graham (Ryangraham) Member Username: Ryangraham Post Number: 66 Registered: 01-2004 |
I've seen better welds for sure, but from what everyone else was saying, I was expecting a lot worse. Looks pretty good to me. I'll be getting one some day. Maybe I'll threaten to post pics on dweb too so they send me the best one they have. | ||
| Shawn McKenzie (Shawn) Member Username: Shawn Post Number: 223 Registered: 10-2002 |
Koby, now you are whining.
Seems like the wind is out of your sails and you are reduced to (in nasal voice) BUT IT'S ONLY A POOOOOSSSSSSEEEUUURRR RACK! northwestparts.com sells a decent roof rack for a fair price. Just let it go man. | ||
| Dave Statler (Falconx84) Member Username: Falconx84 Post Number: 111 Registered: 02-2004 |
Preach it brother!! I'm a poor college student money's hard to come by, I have no idea how i was able to afford the disco in the first place I'm considering the same rack because I'm poor and it's like half the price or less than other racks. I'm not going border to border, I just need some extra equipment space, so this one would work fine. Speaking of poseurs... I'll take a NW parts rack w/ mud on it over an SD rack thats never been off-road. I was working (Sheetz, gas station) and saw a guy with a nice disco, rack, ladder. I asked if he ever went offroad, he looked at me like i was crazy. I pointed to my mud-covered disco. | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1201 Registered: 02-2002 |
Whining? ROFLMAO Those NWP welds do look like shit, I don't know what you're talking about. Perhaps you like that "good from far but far from good look," I don't know. I do know that I'm not driving around with some wannabe legit rack on my rig. Also, I paid less for my SD rack than those of you considering the NWP rack will pay. | ||
| Aaron Richardet (Draaronr) Senior Member Username: Draaronr Post Number: 537 Registered: 09-2002 |
What's all the whining about roof racks. I think the Adventure Rack looks sweet, but I think it function sucks. I mean look how far apart the floor rails are. Everyone who uses this rack efficiently has to put a floor of some kind in it, otherwise your stuff falls through. If you are gonna start welding or attaching a floor in why not get the NWP rack. If you want a great looking and well made rack to put your surfboard or skis on then the adventure rack is great. Personally I hate the way the wilderness rack doesn't follow the contour of the disco roof rack along with the hannibal, but the flooring is practical and useful out of the box. Guess it depends on what fits your needs. And if it is a true trail truck that will get banged up anyhow I think the rack is the least of their concern. And Koby living in Cali is a plus for finding racks. I mean all those people that want a rover that will never leave the pavement come fully opted out there will be accessories everywhere to find. Also the D2 Adventure rack is easier to come buy than a D1. I think David Gage gets the D2 version all the time. | ||
| Bruno Tome (Bruno_tome) Member Username: Bruno_tome Post Number: 98 Registered: 01-2004 |
The Rack on the NWP home page belongs to a member of our local club here in MI, I've inspected it closely (in person), he requested lower rails so that it would not interfere with his ability to continue parking in his garage. The welds seem adequate and the finish is good. After modifying my D90 LRNA rack (presume it to be an SD product), I suspect that it is constructed of 4130 tubing which contributes to the minimal weight of the basket, also the tubing is hot dipped galvanized and powdercoated, certainly these are all indicative of a very high quality product. BT. | ||
| Peter Carey (Peterca) Member Username: Peterca Post Number: 103 Registered: 10-2003 |
It seems Koby is mad other people don't like what he likes. Or maybe Koby is just mad in general. It looks like a rack to me that would hold stuff. Should it do more? Don't mind what I opine, I'm the lowest common denominator. pwc | ||
| Glenn Guinto (Glenn) Senior Member Username: Glenn Post Number: 854 Registered: 02-2002 |
SD rack, NWP rack, Hannibal rack, KVT rack, they all SUCK since they all go to crappy, leaky, rust buckets, broken down all the time, poseur rovers anyways... end of discussion! Glenn | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 868 Registered: 06-2002 |
Glenn, you always have the best posts! | ||
| mark gomez (Mark) Member Username: Mark Post Number: 72 Registered: 05-2003 |
I don't think you can powder coat over galvanized steel, but I could be wrong. That would be a very nice feature to have. Scratch it down to the metal and not have any rust. | ||
| Rob Davison (Nosivad_bor) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Nosivad_bor Post Number: 1758 Registered: 02-2003 |
4130 is aluminum isnt it? i didnt thing any of the SD racks were aluminum. maybe chromoly tube or something. | ||
| Bruno Tome (Bruno_tome) Member Username: Bruno_tome Post Number: 99 Registered: 01-2004 |
Chromemoly... had never seen Galv + powdercoat. BTW the Galv. seemed to be G90 - another quality touch on SD's part. BT. | ||
| Art Bitterman (Aardvark) Member Username: Aardvark Post Number: 96 Registered: 05-2003 |
4130 is chrome moly steel. Deciphering the coding: 41 stands for chrome moly, 30 is the percentage in '1's" of carbon in the steel. Used a lot in tube for roll bas and the such. Will be building a rack for my SII out of 3/4" square cold rolled tubing; solid, and functional! Art 1960 SII, "Aardvark" | ||
| Bruno Tome (Bruno_tome) Member Username: Bruno_tome Post Number: 100 Registered: 01-2004 |
Quote; "out of 3/4" square cold rolled tubing" It may have the smooth appearance of CR but in fact, I'm not aware of any mills (Domestic or foreign) using any CR flats to roll any structural tube shapes, what is used commonly in small sizes is HRP&O (hot rolled pickled and oiled) which closely resembles CR in appearance. BT. | ||
| Rob Davison (Nosivad_bor) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Nosivad_bor Post Number: 1764 Registered: 02-2003 |
LOL, the rack i have is made from 4130 chromoly i found the receipt for the tube right here. must have bumped my head last night. | ||
| Bruno Tome (Bruno_tome) Member Username: Bruno_tome Post Number: 101 Registered: 01-2004 |
Awesome, pricey stuff there... BT. | ||
| Jaime (Blueboy) Senior Member Username: Blueboy Post Number: 964 Registered: 02-2002 |
4130 is used alot in bike frames for strength and lightness. good stuff. Jaime  | ||
| mark gomez (Mark) Member Username: Mark Post Number: 73 Registered: 05-2003 |
So are all SD racks made from 4130? If thats the case, I would say that rack is worth its price just due to the weight savings alone. | ||
| Craig Kobayashi (Koby) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Koby Post Number: 1207 Registered: 02-2002 |
Glenn speaks for most, but not all of us here.  | ||
| Bruno Tome (Bruno_tome) Member Username: Bruno_tome Post Number: 103 Registered: 01-2004 |
Amen Craig! BT. | ||
| Glenn Guinto (Glenn) Senior Member Username: Glenn Post Number: 859 Registered: 02-2002 |
| ||
| eric w siepmann (Cdn001) Member Username: Cdn001 Post Number: 96 Registered: 12-2003 |
4130 is used alot in bike frames for strength and lightness. But the caveat would be that the 4130 used for cycling application usually comes for the manufacturer highly manipulated - Butted, swagged, or shaped. Most die hard steel builders are using more advanced tubesets anyway be it deda reynolds or columbus. EwS | ||
| Kyle Van Tassel (Kyle) Moderator Username: Kyle Post Number: 933 Registered: 11-2002 |
Yes Rob , yours is 4130 and thats all I will build them out of. The SD rack is thinner in wall then mine and that is why its so light... If yours didnt have those large floor tubes it wouldnt weight nothing at all really... | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 883 Registered: 06-2002 |
Kyle, ever build one for the Disco? | ||
| Kyle Van Tassel (Kyle) Moderator Username: Kyle Post Number: 934 Registered: 11-2002 |
Havnt done one for the Disco as of yet because there were really no options for the RaRo classic and I thought that is where efforts were best spent. I will be doing some for the Disco this summer... | ||
| Robbie Donaldson (Robbie) Senior Member Username: Robbie Post Number: 598 Registered: 02-2002 |
woohoo! | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 885 Registered: 06-2002 |
Oh man....I've got to start saving some $$ now for Kyle's summer projects! | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 892 Registered: 06-2002 |
Ok, here's a question for those of you who know the 'real' thing.... I saw this on Ebay, and he states it's a genuine rack...but I can't tell from the picture. Something about the back rail lines doesn't look right to me...what do you think? Should I bid? http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33651&item=247 1817755 | ||
| gil stevens (Gil) Senior Member Username: Gil Post Number: 435 Registered: 02-2002 |
sus thats a genuine rack for p38 range rover , 95-02, not a Disco. | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 893 Registered: 06-2002 |
Well then....that would explain it! Thanks Gil! The guy is also selling a D1 factory manual...so I just assumed it was a Disco rack. My search continues... | ||
| Rob Davison (Nosivad_bor) Dweb Lounge Member Username: Nosivad_bor Post Number: 1771 Registered: 02-2003 |
good find anyway for anyone looking though! rob | ||
| SSV (Susannah) Senior Member Username: Susannah Post Number: 894 Registered: 06-2002 |
Always ready and willing to help Rob! Too bad I keep finding accessories for OTHER trucks! (Found rubber mat set for DII....etc.) |
