Interior / Exterior Visual TechThis section contains discussion related to visual modifications of the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Some items might include dash kits, roof rack modifications and other visual modifications.
I need to make up my mind. I can't decide whether I want the damn rack or not. I can't imagine ever needing it, but I can't decide if I prefer the FJ with or without it?
I would go without the roofrack. If you decide you need one down the line (great for storing cargo, fuel, RTT) you'd be better off going with an aftermarket rack that enables more storage space.
I started out with the OEM rack and ditched it for the GOBI Stealth roof rack which has a nice mesh floor and is a lower profile than the OEM rack. Nice cause now I fit into 6'7" garages!
I would say if you're never gonna use it don't get one. That's a lot of money (that could be put into other mods), windnoise, and mpg loss just to have it look a little different. You can always add it later if you need one and then decide if you just need the stock rack for bikes, kayaks, or skis, or if you need something beefier for cargo, RTT, etc. then go with an aftermarket one.
If you are really just concerned about looks I think the Fj looks pretty sweet with this All-Pro rack (but it doesn't hold and RTT so it's not the most useful out there).
I've seen it painted white to match the roof which also looks sweet.
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'07 VB FJ 6MT, 3'' OME, 285/75/R16 Nitto Terra Grapplers, ATX Chamber Teflons, Demello Offroad Front Bumper, TRD CAI, TRD Exhaust, and some other minor doodads...
The Ultimate Toolbox: Duct tape - For things that move but shouldn't; WD40 - For things that don't move but should.
I think it looks better with a rack on, but its a lot of money to spend if you are not going to use it. On the other hand, I had a jeep wrangler soft top for 11 years and never had a rack, then bought the FJ with a OEM rack already on it, which I didn't use except to store gas and water containers because it wasn't that useful. Then I bought the All-Pro roof rack, which is a lot more functional and I use it all the time. I painted mine white to match the roof.
I definitely like the FJ better with a rack, but I don't like the factory rack at all. If you ever do need to use it, just about any after market rack will serve you better.
Does it really affect MPG that much? Are we talking about aerodynamics or extra weight? Maybe with a bunch of stuff on it but just by itself it wouldn't hardly be noticable I would think. Also wondering how much does a stock roof rack weigh?
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