DESIGNING & BUILDING A ROOF RACK (to hold 580W of solar)

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 11 сен 2024

Комментарии • 122

  • @EXPLORISTlife
    @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +2

    *EXPLORIST.life** x Unaka Gear Co Roof Rack:* unakagearco.com/collections/ford-transit/products/explorist-life-transit-roof-rack/?dt_id=105323

  • @kylehayes1458
    @kylehayes1458 2 года назад +9

    Another good idea is to put a small strip of 3m clear paint protection film. Even the rubber gasket has some vibration that still has contact with paint. The film will eliminate the actual contact to paint. Plus dust gets built up under the gasket over time. The film does the job 🤙🏼

  • @EXPLORISTlife
    @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +3

    If you've got a Transit 148" with a high top like us and are looking to purchase the roof rack shown in this video, just reply to this comment and I'll make sure you get the info you need. We are working on the order page and will have it available in the next few days. Thanks for watching!

    • @dannymoranz1589
      @dannymoranz1589 2 года назад +1

      Ordered a transit crew two weeks ago.Maybe taking delivery March 2023? I will be looking for a roof rack!

    • @dannymoranz1589
      @dannymoranz1589 2 года назад

      Please put me on the list.

    • @krisriegle
      @krisriegle 2 года назад

      Definitely interested!

    • @theworldlywalkers2967
      @theworldlywalkers2967 2 года назад

      I would love to have this on my van I have the high roof extended version.

    • @fernandchaput267
      @fernandchaput267 2 года назад

      Please, put me on the list. Thank you

  • @MyChannel-vm6dw
    @MyChannel-vm6dw Год назад

    One of the cleanest solar roofs I have ever seen. Functional AND Beautiful. Bravo!

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад

      Hey, My Channel! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀

  • @sirculito15893
    @sirculito15893 2 года назад

    I wish I had this available when building my roofrack. Thanks for innovating!

  • @matthewappleby8272
    @matthewappleby8272 2 года назад

    Thanks so much for putting this series here on RUclips, I'm really enjoying the simplicity and visual aspect of your explanations (mix between a kinesthetic and visual learner) and the way they make me feel like I can do a lot of this stuff myself when I get my van next year, which after watching so many other videos, I did not feel like at all (especially electrical, which I was just totally confused about).

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Hey, Matthew Appleby! I appreciate that. Thanks for watching! 🙂😀

    • @matthewappleby8272
      @matthewappleby8272 2 года назад

      ​@@EXPLORISTlife A question about the Ford roof top: Could you have fit 3*200w Renogy solar panels 1650 x 670 x 35 mm / 64.96 x 26.38 x 1.38 in and 2 max air on it without the AC and roof racks? I'm curious about a 3 lithium 600AH battery system and what the max solar you could get out of the rooftop may be to charge this kind of system. Also is there a reason you picked AC for this van over a 2nd fan, as I know Australia gets really hot in summer and really not sure between internal/external AC or just getting 2 fans. I noticed you did not cut a spot for ventilation for a shower, is this not needed as there is no risk of condensation leading to mold? Thanks if you can answer, but understand if your too busy 😄

  • @mojorisen1295
    @mojorisen1295 2 года назад +5

    So, are you planning at the end of this build to post the final Retail cost? Since we live in a real world it would be nice to know what it would cost to build out a van of this type. Thx.

  • @daversj
    @daversj Год назад

    Use a Dremel tool with a sanding drum to adjust roof mount holes. Using a vacuum will keep filings from falling inside. Then a cotton ear swab to touch up paint.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад +1

      Yeah, there are 1,000 ways to do what we did with similar results. If we were doing it over again, we'd do it the same way we did it the first time.

  • @jtr82369
    @jtr82369 2 года назад

    excited to see the panel setup on this :)

  • @lonmar44
    @lonmar44 2 года назад

    Really nice congratulations looks beautiful

  • @VinceBadovinatz88
    @VinceBadovinatz88 Год назад

    Absolutely amazing I didn't get to watch the whole video but I saw the first and I get to see the rack I'll look at the bills when I have time but just awesome teamwork

  • @effie2206
    @effie2206 2 года назад

    Exactly what I'm working on, designing 80/20 Transit roof rack to maximize area for solar panels. My guess is those large panels on your finished roof are 200w each, so including the small panels you are at about of 500w.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Yep! 580W more specifically. 2x200w, 2x55w, 2x35w.

  • @SevenBrokenBar
    @SevenBrokenBar 2 года назад +4

    I have a roof rack installed already, I think the gasket is a great idea! Is there anyway you can post a link to purchase a gasket separately like the one you are using?
    Thanks

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +2

      Unaka is going to have that available soon so you can buy 5-6ft of it, but until then; this is what we used: amzn.to/3zBPneU Pay special attention to the edge width. Our wind fairing is 3/16" so we used 3/16 edge gasket. 1/8" edge gasket would not fit.

  • @waynec2962
    @waynec2962 2 года назад

    Another great video! thanks

  • @rubberduck5355
    @rubberduck5355 Год назад

    I see they sell the gasket.. Awesome..

  • @michaelmanphotography5013
    @michaelmanphotography5013 4 месяца назад

    Looks like the fairing blocks the 360 degree camera.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  4 месяца назад

      Us not having a 360 degree camera also inhibits its performance.

  • @JohnEllis-wt1ij
    @JohnEllis-wt1ij 8 месяцев назад

    I would suspect a Dremel would work better to align the mounting holes in the roof.

  • @fernandocayanan3082
    @fernandocayanan3082 Год назад

    Love your videos

  • @davidpatrick1813
    @davidpatrick1813 2 года назад

    Regarding the anti-cease; I noticed you used the gray colored. I have used the same product but switched to using only the copper colored. The reason I do not use gray at all for any reason is that it does dry and cake on the threads. Maybe not in a year or two but the coper doesn't and if so it would last years longer. Regard the two straps for bolting the side plate. I would recommend one big square with four holes, much stronger but maybe not needed if no cargo will be carried.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +1

      The installation process will be the same regardless of your preferred color of anti-seize.
      One big square splice plate wouldn't work as it would get in the way of the 8020 rails. The small rectangular splice plates paired with the 'half-lapped' 8020 joint is plenty strong.

    • @seanhorton3811
      @seanhorton3811 Год назад

      The copper anti-seize does stay soft. Use just enough to put a light coat on the start of the threads. As you run the bolt in, the the anti-seize will be pulled into the nut. You also have to be very careful to fully clean it from any exposed surface. If you get it on your hands, clothes, gloves, you will track it everywhere and keep doing so. It is the gift that keeps on giving.

  • @MykSr
    @MykSr 2 года назад

    😎❗️… just for the record, I still miss the “old page name” 😂 LoL

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +1

      Adventure in a Backpack? 🤣😂 I sure don't miss typing all of that out or saying it in-person.

  • @rubberduck5355
    @rubberduck5355 Год назад +1

    I like it,, Been watching your vids you guys are doing a great job. I just finally got my new transit.
    Waited 1.5 yr for it AWD I did the Weld Tec 2inch lift and this is the rack Im going with.
    One question..Wher did you get the gasket for the front? Maybe save me some time if you have a link?
    Prob simple Amazon search??
    Thanks keep up the good work.. I will be shopping with you too..

  • @dannymoranz1589
    @dannymoranz1589 2 года назад

    Ordered my Ford Transit Crew two weeks ago.Maybe ……..Mach 2023? I will be looking for roof rack !

  • @dmwi1549
    @dmwi1549 2 года назад +2

    Hi Nate.
    Nice rack!
    Like the fairing gasket.
    I like the way you’ve covered every inch. Not sure how much a/c and vent will shade panels but newer panels are not as sensitive to shading power reduction as they used to be, right?
    How will you remove snow from your roof? No place to stand up there. Not that I would feel safe standing in snow and ice.
    Planning to use Portable ladder or ?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +1

      There's only shading on one of the 35W panels when the sun is low in the sky (early morning and late evening); but is just one of the 'it is what it is' things of having a roof rack as low profile as this.
      We will simply carry a portable ladder for snow removal. Even on our sprinter, it was sketchy to stand on the roof, in the snow, to remove the snow. Super slippery. With the portable ladder leaned on the roof rack, I'll only ever be, say, 4-5 ft off the ground in slippery conditions instead of 8+ feet of being on top of the van.

  • @1fastbuggy502
    @1fastbuggy502 2 года назад +3

    Does the fairing gasket come with the kit?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +2

      Thanks for watching! The gasket does indeed come with the roof rack. We really liked the concept of having the fairing come all the way down to the roof line, so we decided to include the gasket. After our maiden voyage from Steamboat Springs to McCall Idaho this weekend, we averaged 17MPG, which I'd like to think that the low fairing angle helped with.

  • @claytonmaldonado8632
    @claytonmaldonado8632 Год назад

    If the roof rack was tall enough, how much clearance would you need to cover AC unit to not hinder ac functionality? That way you can have maximum amount of solar panels?

  • @tmathis
    @tmathis 9 месяцев назад

    Do you have a link to the outside electric step? I have a short wife and this would be perfect! 💯 My favorite Van build. Great video!

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  9 месяцев назад

      Thanks! Outside electric step? We don't have any steps on the van. You have a timestamp to share so I can see what you are talking about?

  • @NSWMods
    @NSWMods 2 года назад

    Thank u Guys Love the roof rack But i feel need a cover plate at the back as well where u can see the 80/20

    • @unakagearcompany
      @unakagearcompany 2 года назад +2

      Thanks for the suggestion. We left it open in the back to more easily allow air to flow through the rack and out the back. We will definitely look into some sort of cap though as we improve this product.

    • @NSWMods
      @NSWMods 2 года назад

      @@unakagearcompany Yes your right i didn't Think about the Air flow But a cap over the 80/20 where u can see the silver or maybe a bit of paint Thank u for your reply.Stay safe.

    • @unakagearcompany
      @unakagearcompany 2 года назад

      @@NSWMods The rack kits will come with end caps for the rear 8020. In the rush to get the MK1 installed we left those out and still actually need to send them to Nate so thanks for the reminder!

  • @romacthingstodo
    @romacthingstodo Год назад

    What dimension is the 8020? Looks about 50mm square so should be nice and rigid. Looks good by the way 👌

  • @thelowbudgetpod
    @thelowbudgetpod 2 месяца назад

    Any chance you know the usable width of this roof rack? I am considering purchasing this kit but I’m having trouble finding the dimensions online. Thanks!

  • @shanechostetler9997
    @shanechostetler9997 Год назад

    It seems to me like there should be a splice kit that slides in the 80/20 about a foot long to increase the rigidity of the system.

  • @MindBodyMuse
    @MindBodyMuse Год назад

    Hey Nate, can you share how long you think it would take to set up this roof rack, minus all the tribulations? Oh how long you think it would take if you did it a second time?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад

      I can't remember if I said how long it took to install in the video, but I think it was 4 days with testing different parts/methods plus filming? Maybe just go ahead and time-budget for that same amount of time to account for if you have different issues of your own? If we were to do it again with no prototyping or filming, it'd probably take 2 days with both the rack AND the solar panels.

  • @emilybesserer1999
    @emilybesserer1999 Год назад

    Random question- what size is that window behind your driver side?? I’m assuming that’s an arctic tern? I think we ordered the same size and we hesitated to install it bc I read some threads that the larger flat windows can cause warping in the sheet metal, and it looks like yours does not! Any key to installing a flat window on a curved van?

  • @jwright650
    @jwright650 2 года назад

    Can you use a Dremel tool with a small carbide cutter to remove the extra tin that covered the tapped nut inserts in the roof? The hand snips leave a rough looking cut. - just my two cents

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +1

      There's probably 100 different ways to do that. If you go the Dremel route, be sure to mind your sparks and such to prevent rust spots being thrown across the van roof. Remember... that part will never be seen, so a rough 'looking' cut doesn't really matter much.

    • @brianchetelat6601
      @brianchetelat6601 2 года назад

      Another idea is what I did which was use a multi-tool with a fine tooth metal blade. I prepped the area to contain the metal dust and this tool made fast clean work of it. In my opinion, this type of tool is a must for van builders. Really nice design on that roof rack guys!!!

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +1

      Nice! Yeah, that's another good option. I do love my multi-tool. I was almost thinking that the 'upper half of a step bit' would be the ideal tool for that; but I don't think that exists and I didn't want to cut my step bit in half. 🤣😂

  • @TheJJ23540
    @TheJJ23540 2 года назад

    You don’t happen to have options for a 2018 Ford transit high top EXT do you?

  • @gattaca5911
    @gattaca5911 2 года назад

    never used lap sealant......you should mention any tips on how much /far / thick to apply to get it to spread evenly /correctly.....or if it is no big deal splurge away. Seems like it could turn into a messy nightmare quickly.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      It's definitely something I recommend practicing on a scrap piece of 'something', but going slow and letting it flow is the key. We talked about lap sealant in a bit more detail in this video, which may help: ruclips.net/video/bOxl6IZvY2U/видео.html

    • @gattaca5911
      @gattaca5911 2 года назад

      @@EXPLORISTlife thanks, I've worked with other sealants and noticed your work turn out excellent in this vid and thought.....that takes a little skill and can turn ugly quick.

  • @BrianLee-nz3vm
    @BrianLee-nz3vm Год назад

    Hi Nate, I have ordered the Rich 200 watt panels off you. Did you use the Unaka 59.265 cross bars on your roof rack? I am probably going to get AVC to adapt their roof rack for these solar panels as Unaka haven't responded to me for about a week. It's a Shame, their roof rack looks great and priced to sell.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад +1

      You should absolutely follow up with Unaka. It's the holiday season and all of us small businesses are slammed. Sometimes I mean to respond to something and simply forget to hit send, and a quick and friendly 'Hey, Just following up on this', is very welcome.

    • @BrianLee-nz3vm
      @BrianLee-nz3vm Год назад

      @@EXPLORISTlife O.K I will do. They are a great price and offer the wider crossbars since you did your rack. Thanks. Brian

  • @scoro8964
    @scoro8964 Год назад

    Hello, what is the complete height clearance of your van?

  • @GirdHerd
    @GirdHerd 2 года назад

    So it sounds like if a Ford Transit owner wants to install a Nomadic A/C, Maxxair fan, maximum solar panels, and roof rack like yours, they should get all the measurements from you before cutting that first hole in their roof.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Absolutely. I gave all of the measurements for the A/C and Maxxair fan in our previous videos; but I strongly recommend anybody plan out the entire roof before cutting holes even if they aren't following this plan exactly.

  • @DuanDao
    @DuanDao 2 года назад

    The sealant you used, does it come out in a bread and then levels itself out as it cures?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Yep! It's 'self leveling', which means that after about 5-10 minutes, it spreads out into a flat seal: amzn.to/3zekmML

  • @earlhamil731
    @earlhamil731 Год назад

    No concerns with not having a welded rack?

  • @themechanic9130
    @themechanic9130 Год назад

    Hello. Check an alternaive rail system MINITEC. It has M8 slot for standard nuts or spring loaded nut to keep it in position and many other features. It is available up to 6m lenngth which is less comlicated to screw together but more expensive in transport. UPS only takes max. 2m.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад

      Maybe I'm just a bit jaded that we spent so much time developing this roof rack just for you to come in and suggest something totally different, but it also looks like minitec is difficult to actually purchase/acquire without having to jump through hoops (emailing/calling) for no real benefits.

  • @jamesverzani4847
    @jamesverzani4847 Год назад

    I bought the Flatline roof rack for my 130 inch wheelbase but mistakenly bought the 148 inch so now It wont fit. what can I do? Cut it down to size? I have 6 openings for the feet and of course they sent me 8. They don't even make one for 130 inch.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад

      You're going to want to contact Flatline for their return/exchange policies.

  • @Nova-1969
    @Nova-1969 Год назад

    Do you know if this roof rack will work on a mid roof? The suppliers website doesn’t list one for a mid roof.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад

      Reach out to them and ask! They are super helpful.

  • @anyalpine
    @anyalpine 2 года назад

    Any changes to GPS or FordPass app connectivity since the sharkfin antenna is covered?

  • @madforit9661
    @madforit9661 2 года назад

    Great video guys, what's the sealant your using?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад +1

      That's Dicor Lap Sealant: amzn.to/3J6QcQ8

  • @Charlotte_MTB
    @Charlotte_MTB 2 года назад

    Could you link to the mk1 rack? It's not listed on Unaka's site.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      We're working on the product/sales page and will have it available within the next few days. I'll circle back around here once it's available.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Hey Kevin! The link is now live. Here it is: unakagearco.com/collections/ford-transit/products/explorist-life-transit-roof-rack/?dt_id=105323

  • @Tahoematt
    @Tahoematt 2 года назад

    What are the 3 different panels you used? Brand name and wattage?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Stay tuned! Thats the next video in the series.

  • @daviscrt
    @daviscrt 2 года назад

    Great information. Does the gasket on the front of the rack come when ordering the roof rack. Thanks Don

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Thanks for watching! The gasket does indeed come with the roof rack. We really liked the concept of having the fairing come all the way down to the roof line, so we decided to include the gasket. After our maiden voyage from Steamboat Springs to McCall Idaho this weekend, we averaged 17MPG, which I'd like to think that the low fairing angle helped with.

    • @ryansparrow2554
      @ryansparrow2554 2 года назад +1

      @@EXPLORISTlife is there some place we can get that gasket? I have unaka’s current fairing and would like to get that gasket.

    • @unakagearcompany
      @unakagearcompany 2 года назад +1

      @@ryansparrow2554 We will be offering the gasket as an additional accessory on our website soon.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Unaka is going to have that available soon so you can buy 5-6ft of it, but until then; this is what we used: amzn.to/3zBPneU Pay special attention to the edge width. Our wind fairing is 3/16" so we used 3/16 edge gasket. 1/8" edge gasket would not fit.

  • @fernandchaput267
    @fernandchaput267 2 года назад

    Please put même on the list

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Here ya go! link for the rack is now live: The link for more info on our roof rack is now live: unakagearco.com/collections/ford-transit/products/explorist-life-transit-roof-rack/?dt_id=105323

  • @ryansparrow2554
    @ryansparrow2554 2 года назад

    I have unaka’s current fairing for my build where could I source that gasket from?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Unaka is going to have that available soon so you can buy 5-6ft of it, but until then; this is what we used: amzn.to/3zBPneU Pay special attention to the edge width. Our wind fairing is 3/16" so we used 3/16 edge gasket. 1/8" edge gasket would not fit.

    • @ryansparrow2554
      @ryansparrow2554 2 года назад

      @@EXPLORISTlife thanks I appreciate it!

  • @stephanecorriveau6982
    @stephanecorriveau6982 Год назад

    One has to hope that the head of marketing at Loctite was subsequently fired for packaging its Blue 242 in a red colored squeeze tube.

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад +1

      Joke is on them as I'm colorblind. Makes no difference to me! 😂🤣🤷‍♂️

    • @stephanecorriveau6982
      @stephanecorriveau6982 Год назад

      @@EXPLORISTlife LOL. You must really "appreciate" when an electronic component uses a single dual-color LED as a status indicator. "So, this means it's light-gray when fully charged and very-light-gray when charging."

  • @theworldlywalkers2967
    @theworldlywalkers2967 2 года назад

    How much is the rack going for?

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  2 года назад

      Here's the link to the sales page where you can check up-to-date pricing: unakagearco.com/collections/ford-transit/products/explorist-life-transit-roof-rack/?dt_id=105323

  • @shanechostetler9997
    @shanechostetler9997 Год назад

    Too bad stainless steel fasteners weren’t an option in the kit.

  • @modevans3569
    @modevans3569 Год назад

    Probably easier building on the van

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад

      Probably not, but feel free to give it a shot if you think that's better. 🤷

    • @modevans3569
      @modevans3569 Год назад

      @@EXPLORISTlife absolutely 👍🏼

  • @Solarlifeoffgrid
    @Solarlifeoffgrid Год назад

    A 1000 bucks for a roof rack smh

    • @EXPLORISTlife
      @EXPLORISTlife  Год назад

      Hey there, big guy! I'm sorry you've got so much negativity going on in your life that you have to spend your time coming to my channel to talk shit on my projects. Maybe logging off of the internet for a bit and going for a walk or hanging out with friends if you have any may help. Thanks for watching anyway and I hope your day gets better. 🙂