[Garrylee23]

Hi all, looking at ways of adding to the carrying capacity of our T4, we only have a full-width R&R bed in the back of the van, but carry two dogs in travel cages so space is limited. Can't use a roof box as we have a Reimo rail fitted, didn't think that through:*! Have a towbar, but I think the van is too low for a trailer (lowered when we bought it). Have done some online searches and found the box-rak, anyone use one of these or can recommend something similar?

 

[SmileyT]

This was my solution on the old van: Fiamma box mounted on tailgate bike rack but could also be mounted on tow bar bike rack.

 

[Garrylee23]

Thanks, that's the sort of thing, the bak-rac is considerably cheaper! Did you have the roof bars fitted and if you don't mind me asking what was the rough cost?

 

[SmileyT]

Hi Garylee, I fitted the roof rails myself purchased from one of the VW specialist suppliers. About £100 if I remember correctly. Both the bike rack and box from flea bay. Box £100 and rack £80. I also updated the door struts to carry the weight of the empty box. Can't remember where from but think it was a supplier near Tamworth and they are on the 'net. Used my standard steel roof bars that I've had for years. The roof rails were also handy for securing the awning I had.

 

[rudis_dad]

Hi all, looking at ways of adding to the carrying capacity of our T4, we only have a full-width R&R bed in the back of the van, but carry two dogs in travel cages so space is limited. Can't use a roof box as we have a Reimo rail fitted, didn't think that through:*! Have a towbar, but I think the van is too low for a trailer (lowered when we bought it). Have done some online searches and found the box-rak, anyone use one of these or can recommend something similar?

Is the tow hitch separate from the towbar (i.e. can the ball be detached from the towbar)? If so, you may be able to get an extended neck tow hitch (look a bit phallic but would do the job) otherwise it should be possible for a fabrication shop (not looking at anyone in particular I:...) to make you up an adaptor to lift the towball.

 

[alan.surry]

We've got a Fiamma caravan bike rack permanently bolted to our tailgate (£50 from a breakers) To this we strap a canvas roof bag, the sort that's designed to sit between roof rails. (£30 off eBay). In effect, we've got the best of both worlds. The bag can go on the roof and bikes on the rack, or the bag can be strapped to the bike rack. When it's not in use the bag folds up small enough to be stowed in one of the cupboards. Being waterproof it's come in handy for stuffing wetsuits, awnings and other damp gear outside the van on our return journeys so we don't get the inside of the van damp.

I hope this helps. I'll sort some photos if it sounds like it might be what you need.

Cheers. Al.