Starting my build - installing RetraxPro XR Tonneau cover and Kuat Ibex bed rack

[Old Dawg G]

This is my first time posting to any forum and I thought I'd share the start of my journey to get my 2024 Ranger XLT ready for some light offroad driving and camping. I decided to go with the RetraxPro XR tonneau cover with T-slots so that I could then install a bed rack over the top of that. Then, I will install a rooftop tent on top of that. We were just at the Overland Expo in Flagstaff and I ordered a 23 Zero brand tent. More to come when that gets delivered. I didn't record video of assembly or install because it seems there is a good deal of that out there already. I was not happy with the initial tonneau cover that I purchased and decided to return that and upgrade to the model that had the all aluminum slats. It's pretty pricey in my opinion, but I am very happy with the quality. I purchased the tonneau from RealTruck and their customer service was amazing. No hassle at all in returning the original tonneau and getting the higher level model. I purchased the bed rack directly off of Kuat's website. I am also very pleased with the quality of this rack and all the modular attachments you can add. I'm really looking forward to getting the tent and getting out there to enjoy my new truck.

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[markal49]

Very nice. I like that Kuat rack and May get one at some point.

Did you install the required j-braces for the bed?

 

[Old Dawg G]

Very nice. I like that Kuat rack and May get one at some point.

Did you install the required j-braces for the bed?

No, I have not done that yet but that is also on the list. I plan to do that before installing the rooftop tent or before doing any offroad driving with the rack, just to be on the safe side. I'm still doing research on that topic. There's a bunch of info on this forum that has been very helpful.

 

[steveconnery]

Very nice. I like that Kuat rack and May get one at some point.

Did you install the required j-braces for the bed?

What’s the story behind the j brace?
Is there a TDLR somewhere?

 

[RealTruck]

This is my first time posting to any forum and I thought I'd share the start of my journey to get my 2024 Ranger XLT ready for some light offroad driving and camping. I decided to go with the RetraxPro XR tonneau cover with T-slots so that I could then install a bed rack over the top of that. Then, I will install a rooftop tent on top of that. We were just at the Overland Expo in Flagstaff and I ordered a 23 Zero brand tent. More to come when that gets delivered. I didn't record video of assembly or install because it seems there is a good deal of that out there already. I was not happy with the initial tonneau cover that I purchased and decided to return that and upgrade to the model that had the all aluminum slats. It's pretty pricey in my opinion, but I am very happy with the quality. I purchased the tonneau from RealTruck and their customer service was amazing. No hassle at all in returning the original tonneau and getting the higher level model. I purchased the bed rack directly off of Kuat's website. I am also very pleased with the quality of this rack and all the modular attachments you can add. I'm really looking forward to getting the tent and getting out there to enjoy my new truck.

You certainly made the right call opting for the Pro XR. Long lasting durability and a lifetime of reliability are going to go a long way for an off-road build. This is a stellar setup so far, and I'm really looking to forward to seeing the rest of this project come together and hear about your adventures!

 

[vdrona]

Great start to the build. I love the kuat rack how it fits and looks on the truck especially with the retrax pro XR tonnoe cover. I have the same setup, but on the ranger raptor, and I believe I'm a few steps ahead of your vision with a RTT and now in the process of building some bed drawer organizers. I'll post a thread as you sir now have inspired me to post my build.

 

[KayaPayaPigDog]

What’s the story behind the j brace?
Is there a TDLR somewhere?

Trucks built before October 2024 (possibly September but can’t confirm) had a lack of support at the front of the load box sides and if you put too much weight on the bed rails it could actually cause the sides of the bed to bend out of shape. If you buy a ford topper or tonneau cover they would install the braces free of charge but if you buy aftermarket you have to buy the braces and either pay for install or do it yourself. That’s the quick version! Cheers

 

[Old Dawg G]

What’s the story behind the j brace?
Is there a TDLR somewhere?

There is quite a bit of information in this forum regarding J-braces. There are some differing opinions, so I'd recommend reading through the threads and researching some of the links provided by the members. I've never been part of a forum before but am really glad I joined this group. The members are amazing and there is some very useful information provided here.

 

[Peconicgp]

Built out my basically the same way. I do have to narrow Molle panels installed now as they were originally on backorder when I got everything else. I had the dealer install the J-Braces to keep everything covered under warranty.
For me I wanted to have my fly rod holders mounted on the truck and have the ability to throw a boat up on top as well. Loving this setup and take it through the car wash weekly with no issues. I opted for the headache rack to provide some rigidity to the rack in case I throw some weight up there, and added the hand grabs just because I thought they looked cool.

If your experience is like mine, you will love it. The tonneau cover provides great security, and the rack looks sharp on the truck with a fantastic modularity.

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