I picked up the deployable ladder, trying to decide which side to mount it on. I don’t plan to have the side mounted gear carrier, and my rack is loaded symmetrically although I may want an awning in the future. Are there any considerations I’m missing or does it not matter much if I’m not planning to get the gear box?

 

Given you mention wanting an awning in the future I'd consider where that would be placed and the type of awning and mounts when mounting and choosing a side for the ladder.

Example: Given the rear door opens to the right (passenger side in NA) I'd consider mounting a 270 degree awning on the left (Driver side in NA) so it covers the back and doesn't compromise access to read cargo area with rear door open. That would likely require mounting the ladder on the passenger (right in NA) side so as not to limit access for awning or ladder/roof access with awning deployed.

If it's a straight awning - verses 270 - that may also mean preferring the same mounting condition as the bracket mounting system *may*, depending on awning brand and mounts, have clearance issues with a ladder.

Bottom line I'd be looking hard at my future awning choice and mounting system(s) before deciding on which side to mount the ladder. Accessibility and the fact the ladder mounts require drilling holes in the lower mounting vehicle trim piece impact the ease/practicality of flipping the side the ladder is mounted on later should there be an awning conflict. Me: I'd mount the awning driver (left) side and ladder opposite to avoid any possible conflict. In my particular case, I have both the ladder and exterior gear box so driver (left) side will be my awning mounted side and awning bracket locations are flexible enough to avoid the conflict - and - I don't need roof rack access with an awning deployed.

 

This is exactly the type of info I was looking for. Thank you!

 

I put mine on the right for the primary reason of not wanting to obscure a portion of the driver side mirror's view. This was an easy choice sense I have no interest in fitting the "Gerry McGovern toybox".