Peter Storck
After a year of running with the Cab Rack, there have been little - if any - signs of real wear and tear.
Words and Photos by Peter Storck
We enjoy testing new gear and reporting all of the results of our first-hand trials. During a recent trail run, the unexpected happened as we endured a sudden rollover (on the rig’s side) and while no one was injured, it was surprising to see that there wasn’t any damage to the Prinsu Design Studio Cab Rack that we were testing - even the techs at the body shop we brought the vehicle to afterwards were surprised it didn’t have so much of a ding, dent, or bend.
Upon receiving the rack for a 2018 Chevy Colorado, it came well packaged and protected to prevent any damage and scratches, which sometimes happens during shipping. It also included all of the necessary pieces and mounting hardware for installation (which sometimes doesn’t happen). Although the installation manual was clear and concise with additional support on the company’s website, the real challenge we faced was drilling two of the six holes (per side) to mount the rack feet through the Chevy’s ultra-high-strength steel A-pillars.
Peter Storck
It has a low-profile design, which makes clearance easier for low-hanging obstructions.
After overcoming the problem (and damaging a few drill bits in the process) the rest of the install and drilling of the holes was straightforward. As indicated in the instructions, use a high-quality sealant when installing the rack’s Plusnuts (Rivnuts) as well as under the bolts. We then bolted the rack together, set it on the roof, secured it to the Plusnuts, and we were ready to roll. The rack is well-designed, its finish is very durable and enhances the truck’s profile. After more than a year in use, it has held securely together with little - if any - signs of real abuse from the trails or during daily drives.
One aspect of the rack we like is its versatility. It can mount a variety of accessories from Prinsu through the designated slots on the crossbars. From a Hi-lift jack and an awning mount to an RTT the rack is as functional as it is durable. Should you want something to mount that Prinsu doesn’t offer a solution for, simply bolt it to the rack using any 1/4”-20 carriage bolt. A rack with an available solid wind deflector or one with a cutout for a 102 cm (40 in) light bar is also available.
Peter Storck
Wind noise was reduced thanks to the rack’s lower edge trim on the front that closes the gap between the wind deflector and the roof.
Since we opted for the former, there wasn’t any noticeable difference in wind noise or, more importantly, fuel economy during travel. Wind noise was reduced in part to the rack’s lower edge trim on the front featuring a bulb seal that closes the gap between the wind deflector and the roof. It has a low profile and only increased the overall height of the truck by about 5 cm (2 in), still making it ideal for low clearances such as underground parking (if it’s mounted to a daily driver) and low hanging branches on the trail.
One of the main reasons we opted for the rack was to transport extra gear off-road when camping, but it has proven to be much more functional. It can mount an awning for protection from the sun while camping or tailgating, and can also load unexpected purchases that are too long for short bed trucks.
Peter Storck
With its many functions, it also makes for a great handle when the trails well….get dicey.
Finding the ideal rack that doesn’t add more weight than you care to have on your 4x4 or one that’s too light for all the gear you want to bring off-grid can be somewhat challenging. But at 36 kg (80 lb) and with its solid construction and easy installation, the Prinsu Cab Rack is a good choice that can meet an array of applications for more convenience and function on the trails.
Price: $699 USD www.prinsudesignstudio.com