All Prices are in $AUD
Ford Ranger Roof Racks
Introducing the Offroad Animal's Range of Roof Racks for Ford Ranger. View Features ⇲
Looking for Ford Ranger roof racks that won’t howl on the freeway? The Offroad Animal Scout rack is shaped for the Next-Gen Ranger and Raptor, so you get sharp looks, easy mounting, and a rack that stays quiet at speed.
Add the light-bar deflector, toss a pack of M8 bolts in your cart, and choose the brackets you need. Want a hand planning a loadout within your budget? Call or chat with our team and we’ll set you up for weekdays on the tools and week-end escapes.
Why this ranks among the best roof racks for Ford Ranger
- Super-quiet aerodynamics: a wind deflector guides air over the rails and bars to cut noise and give it that streamlined look.
- Low profile: sits about 85 mm above the roof and usually doesn’t raise overall height — handy for 2.1 m car parks and a dual-cabcabin that stays calm.
- Light yet tough: aluminium rack (~15 kg) built from high quality materials with the durability to withstand Aussie conditions.
- M8 T-slots: top and side channels accept standard bolts and hardware — grab them at Bunnings — for quick fitment of accessories and equipment.
- Lighting ready: optional deflector fits a single or double-row 42″ light bar.
- Cross bars / crossbars: supplied cross bars give flexible tie-points for straps and mounts.
Ford Ranger roof rack weight limit — simple maths
Before you load up, know the numbers for your racks and vehicle our ratings are limited by the vehicle roof, not the strength of the rack:
- Dynamic (on-road): 95 kg
- Off-road dynamic: 63 kg
- Static (parked): 190 kg
The rack is ~15 kg. Subtract that to determine real payload. Examples: on-road 95 − 15 = 80 kg load, off-road 63 − 15 = 48 kg, static 190 − 15 = 175 kg. Balance weight, keep heavy gear down low, and follow your ford handbook.
DIY-friendly install (easy installation, no holes in your roof)
Vehicle-specific mounts pick up factory holes, so the Scout is easily installed at home — about 4 hours, difficulty 5/10.
- Assemble upside down, keep components loose; then tighten after installing on the car.
- Drop the headliner, unplug the A-pillar tweeter, remove handles and trims for neat fitment.
- Peel the roof channel cover, clean with isopropyl, run RTV/silicone around holes, then mount the brackets.
- Protect paint with a blanket, lift on with a mate, align, tighten, and refit covers so everything is covered and tidy.
“It’s easiest to put the rack together upside down and keep it all loose until it’s on the car.” — David Fitzpatrick
Choosing the right roof rack for your Ranger
To determine the right roof rack for your needs, think about the gear you plan to carry (bikes, kayaks, luggage, ladders, a tent), how often you head off road, the space you prefer on top, and which features matter most: low noise, style, functionality, and quick access. The Scout’s M8 channel system lets you add the best accessories for your trips — awnings, recovery boards, and more — from a range of manufacturers. If you’re comparing a Rhino-Rack or a Pioneer platform, note that the Scout uses the same familiar T-slot idea, with a lower profile and integrated deflector for a quieter ride. Our team can help you match the setup to your intended load and models like Wildtrak or XLT.
What you can carry (and keep tied down)
These rails and cross bars make it simple to transportbulky items and keep them secure. Use proper tie-downs and straps for bikes, kayaks, luggage, boards, or work tools. There’s plenty of room to stow extra gear for your next trip, and the platform is rugged enough for rough tracks while remaining sleek on the street — a tidy look for any brand-new ranger or seasoned trail runner.
Specs & compatibility
- Size: ~1210 mm (W) × 1230 mm (L)
- Height above roof: ~85 mm
- Finish: matte-black powder coat
- Vehicles:Next gen Ranger & Raptor (2022–current)
- Box includes: 5 aluminium cross bars, LH/RH side rails, LH/RH front & rear mounts, wind deflector, hardware
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FAQs
Will it be noisy on the highway?
No. The aero deflector guides airflow over the roof to reduce resonance and whistling.While not completely silent the small increase in noise is less than most offroad tyres, and considerably less than other racks.
Can I fit it at home?
Yes. If you’re comfortable with basic tools, plan about four hours. There’s no drilling into the roof — you’ll drop the headliner to reach factory studs for clean fitment.
What’s the best Ford Ranger roof rack setup for touring?
Start with the Scout rack, add the light-bar deflector, an awning bracket and recovery board mounts. Keep heavier items inside the tub for safer handling.
What tools do I need for the install?
A Torx set (T20/T25/T30 plus T50 for the seat-belt bolt), a 6 mm socket, ratchet/driver, trim tool or flathead screwdriver, plastic scraper, isopropyl alcohol and RTV/silicone. A soft blanket on the roof helps protect paint while lifting the rack on.
Do I need to cut or drill anything?
No drilling. You’ll trim small sections of the roof channel cover to clear the brackets, then refit for a neat, sealed finish.
Will it clear a 2.1 m car park?
In most cases, yes. The rack sits about 85 mm above the roof and typically doesn’t increase overall height thanks to the antenna position. Always measure once you add tall accessories. This also depends on what tyres and lift you’re running.
How does it compare to Rhino-Rack or Pioneer?
They’re quality platforms. The Scout focuses on a low profile, quiet wind management, and M8 T-slots across the top and sides. If you already own Rhino-Rack or Pioneer brackets, many T-slot parts will still work — check each part’s slot size and fitment.
What can I carry up top?
Bikes, kayaks, luggage, boards, ladders and more — just keep within the stated load ratings and tie everything down with proper straps. The platform is designed to withstand daily work and rough tracks.
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