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I've been scouring the internet trying to find a solution for having three crossbars on the Defender.
I want to use a platform rack from the likes of RhinoRack/ARB and am thinking that having the third will be more supportive seeing as the Explorer rack has three "feet".
Recently, I came across this while browsing the Thule Tepui Foothill site. Anyone know what foot kit that is?!
If you search the forums there a number of threads detailing the Thule feet, fit kit and bars you can get. It’s basically the set up they sell in UK and South Africa but for some reason haven’t certified elsewhere. All available on Amazon or eBay anywhere. You’ll be able to put three bars, but they may not line up on a perfect plane like a full rack, so not sure if I’d advise.
Yes, this has been covered before, but since I just did a Thule cross bar install today for my Autohome Airtop tent on my 2021 110, here's what I used (consistent with others' recommendations). The Wingbars were available at my local sporting goods store. The Fit Kit and Rapid Foot system I ordered from Amazon (shipped from Amazon UK).
I am considering adding a third bar to spread out the load but the span between the bars seems ok given how strong the Autohome tent is. YMMV depending on what load you're trying to spread and how robust the base.
1) Thule Wingbar Evo 127cm (50 inch) (2 pack) - Model # 711300
2) Thule Roof Rack Fit Kit 3040 (This comes up on Thule's website in the UK, but not in the US). Same fit kit for Lexus RX 300 (1998-2003) and Dodge/Chrysler Town and Country/Carvans/Voyagers (2006-2007)
3) Thule Rapid System 753 Feet
If you go to the UK Thule website, you can use the fit my vehicle menus and pull up the same info using the 2020 Defender.
My total cost for two bars and Thule kits was approx $450.
I am also using a Front Runner Rooftop tent mounting kit to attach the tent to the Thule Wingbars. Those are very well made and cost approx $100 for a set of 4 mounting points.
I hope this is helpful.
Last edited by JDBFreeheel; May 4, 2021 at 12:45 AM.
I'm finally that guy on the forums not fully searching before posting .
Nonetheless, thank you @JDBFreeheel & @Tartan for the assist. I really dived deep into the rabbit hole once I realized the 3040 fit kit fit some other vehicles (Jeep Commander JK 06-10).
I am going to attempt to setup the Rhino-Rack RCH6 legs with the RCP13-BK base kit, with the end goal of putting a 52107F Pioneer Platform on the Defender.
I'm finally that guy on the forums not fully searching before posting .
Nonetheless, thank you @JDBFreeheel & @Tartan for the assist. I really dived deep into the rabbit hole once I realized the 3040 fit kit fit some other vehicles (Jeep Commander JK 06-10).
I am going to attempt to setup the Rhino-Rack RCH6 legs with the RCP13-BK base kit, with the end goal of putting a 52107F Pioneer Platform on the Defender.
The RCP-13 fit kit finally arrived so I decided to do some test fitment before ordering the platform.
At first glance it looks like they fit, and the washer fits great in the track, however upon closer inspection I don't think there is enough support for much load.
The feet do not fit as designed (flush) in the tracks, and appear to be a little "tall" for the LR track. It's an interesting problem because technically it might fit great if the small edge of the fit kit was cut down (might attempt). The stock bolts are too long however and I feel that the retainer might be compromised if I need to cut that down as well.
I did email Rhino Rack to find out more about a Defender specific fit kit, response as below.
Hello, Thank you for reaching out to Rhino Rack. Unfortunately, we do not have an engineered fitment for the 2020 & 2021 Defenders. Our engineering team is working on making those fitments but at this time, we do not have an ETA for when they will be released
One side fits flush!! Sits high in the track due to the "small" side of the kit. Best View Dark Finally Arrived!
Defender Factory Track and Cross Bars
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Hello, Thank you for reaching out to Rhino Rack. Unfortunately, we do not have an engineered fitment for the 2020 & 2021 Defenders. Our engineering team is working on making those fitments but at this time, we do not have an ETA for when they will be released
