2. How much solar can I fit? ------ Click this link for our 3D Van Configurator or email us for layout help at csr@unakagearco.com
3. What is weight capacity of this rack? ----- Please adhere to the manufacturer's roof load capacity for guidance, however our roof racks are strong enough to handle most roof top scenarios, message us with specifics for help
4. How long is installation? ------ Usually for 1 person, install will be roughly 4 hours, with 2 people you can cut that down to about 1.5 hours (Brad & Matt tested)
5. How many crossbars do I need? ------ The kit comes with 6, multiple solar panels can share a bar in the middle, depending on your usage you may need more crossbars, message us with details for help
2019+ Sprinter High Roof Vans
Kit Includes
- single piece wind fairing
-6 ultralight 15 series 8020 crossbars
-6 ultralight 15 series 8020 side rails
-Front, middle, rear laser cut side plates per side
-All necessary brackets and stainless steel hardware
-Solar panel brackets for mounting up to two large solar panels
The Unaka Premium Roof Rack sets the standard as the strongest roof rack on the market, engineered for maximum strength and durability so it handles any load with confidence. Designed with unmatched modular customization and a precise contoured fit to your van’s roof, it delivers premium quality and versatility that outperforms anything else out there. It’s the go-to choice for serious adventurers who want rugged reliability without compromise.
soak up the sun
Maximize your solar output with the only rack available that can support a 250w panel
Top bolt access for simple setup, added strength, & endless positioning
Never worry about removing an awning before you can adjust your setup again
Why you want this
The Unaka Premium Roof Rack features a full 80/20 frame, giving you industrial-grade strength and unmatched modularity for endless layouts. Unlike competitors that rely on 3/16" aluminum plates for support, our 80/20 core lets you easily add accessories and adapt your setup without sacrificing rigidity or load capacity. It’s the backbone that makes this rack both tougher and more versatile than anything else out there.
Durable frame
Increased strength from 8020 frame rather than 3/16" side plates
Full modularity, or placement, integration with crossbars
Better weight distribution for handling all your gear, from decking to kayaks & everything between
Fiamma F45s ready
Easily install the wall mount F45s with our brackets (sold separately) in minutes
Enjoy the shade without worry of bent side plates with awning deployed
Low profile integration to maintain aerodynamics and clean aesthetics
Deck it out
Go ahead, live on the edge with a rooftop deck
Strong enough to support kayaks, gear bags/boxes, and even the fearless yogi
Unaka deck panels are the only true flush mount panels you'll find so you don't lose any of your top 80/20 channel
Fast, easy, & ready for anything
Get up there
Climb confidently with raised tread for traction
Increased stability from connection points directly to the roof rack
Added Molle features for mounting gear
Optional wheel well cut out style for sleek look and better clearances
High Bar compatible
High Bar kits compatible for extra roof top space
Get back your roof real estate that was once robbed by fans or AC units
Support up to 200lbs
Complete the system
Built without Limits
Do it your way & your style so the adventures never pause
The team at UNAKA bailed us out! They helped us track down an awning that another vendor failed to deliver on time. They also were able to expedite a roof rack for us.
Store owner replied:
Thank John for reaching out to us to help you with that project. Let us know if we can do anything else for you in the future!
I had looked for a rack and solar for a while with very little response. When I contacted Unaka they promptly answered my questions and had a package that made sense. Unaka then delivered quickly and all went together very easily. The 1000 watt solar array runs my under mount ac all day without depleting my batteries. Great setup and excellent customer service.
We spent a lot of time researching roof racks for our 2021 Sprinter 170 EXT High Roof, aka "Luna Mae" before deciding on the Unaka rack. There are plenty of options on the market, but we kept coming back to this one because of its thoughtful design, modularity, and overall quality.
Before purchasing, we had the opportunity to meet Matt at an overlanding event. He took the time to answer every question we had, walked around with us looking at other builds, explained different options, and even offered ideas based on how we planned to use our van. There was never any pressure to buy, just good, honest customer service. That kind of support is hard to find these days and played a big part in our decision.
Installation wasn't difficult, but I wouldn't call it easy either. I definitely recommend having at least two people. Some of the components are simply easier to position and secure with an extra set of hands. Take your time, follow the instructions, and you'll be rewarded with a solid installation.
Once everything was tightened down, this rack became part of the van. There is no rattling or noticeable movement. We have our solar panels mounted to it, and they've remained rock solid through some challenging conditions. We've camped in wind gusts approaching 70 mph, driven interstate speeds around 80 mph (where legal and safe to do so) and traveled through crosswinds around 40 mph. The rack and solar panels never gave us a reason to worry.
The quality of the materials and finish impressed us from the start, and after using it in the real world, we're even happier with the purchase.
Our only complaint has nothing to do with Unaka Gear, we simply wish our budget would let us buy more of their products. They make several accessories we'd like to add to our build when funds allow.
If you're building out a Sprinter or any van and want a roof rack that is well-designed, well-built, and backed by people who genuinely care about their customers, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Unaka Gear.
Store owner replied:
Hey Dayle,
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful review. It really means a lot to our team.
I'll be sure to share your comments with Matt. Taking the time to understand how someone plans to use their van and helping them find the right solution is exactly the experience we strive to provide.
We're also glad to hear the rack has performed so well in real-world conditions. Hearing that it has stayed solid through highway speeds, strong crosswinds, and camping in heavy wind gives future customers a great picture of what these racks are built to handle.
We truly appreciate your trust in Unaka Gear Co. and look forward to helping with the next additions to Luna Mae whenever you're ready.
Thanks again!
— Eric
I was impressed with everything, the communications, the precision build and design.. The packing of the rack in custom curt dense foam, everything had its place. Easy install, the rack,p and the Rich solar panels. Bottom line it looks great. Well worth the money in my opinion!
The simple modular design of this roof rack first attracted me to it. I love that I am able to fix, modify or customize to fit my needs at anytime.
Pros:
- Relatively simple to build
- Extruded aluminum construction is highly modular
- Simple, lightweight design
- Utilitarian look (subjective)
- Great price. Just price out hardware and extrusions alone and its obviously worth it
Cons:
- End caps came with screws but were not pre-tapped. Expect to need to tap these ends yourself
- Build documentation assumes reasonable level of knowledge/capability not bad, but expect to DIY
It took about 4 hours to install the rack with two people. Adding solar was simple too. I’ve driven nearly 4000 miles and it’s doing just fine. I’m very happy.
After researching and comparing different roof racks for what feels like ten years I finally went with Unaka and I’m so SO glad I did. The installation process was so incredibly smooth. My partner and I said multiple times throughout the process “it feels like things are going too smooth,” but it was truly just that easy! The quality of the parts look and feel great. I am excited to continue purchase more accessories for my roof racks now!
My Unalaska/ Explorist roof rack is really well made and easy to put together. The solar panels, fan and A/C all came together great. I also got the Fiamma awning and am pleased with everything
Their designs amd engineering are some of the best I have seen on the market. Unmatched customer service as well~!!! Unaka have been fantastic partners in my van build out.
I installed the premium version on my Promaster this week. The job took me about three hours to do, but I did it alone and had to move my ladder from one side to the other and back and forth to complete the installation.
Everything fit perfectly. The only issue I had was the mounts didn’t quite slide over the posts in my van. I don’t fault Unaka for that, I’m sure the issue was inconstancies with the Promaster.
I love the fact that flat mount brackets are included for the solar panels. This looks much cleaner than having the panels sit above the rack. The side plates on the rack make the premium version worth it over the standard. You can’t see the panels from the ground or the wiring. It’s just clean. I did have to do a little planning when it came to installing the t nuts in order to ensure they the panels would fit like I wanted. I installed a 100W panel on each side of my Maxxair fan front to back and then a 200w panel traversly behind those panels. I still have room up there for more solar but instead I think I’m going to build a platform to stand on for photography.
Overall I am very impressed with the quality and the ease of installation. Pay attention to the specs on the 8020 if you plan on adding accessories or need more t nuts. There is a difference between series 10 and series 15 and if you order the wrong nuts or studs they will not work.
Lastly the fairing is nice. I no longer hear wind on my maxxair fan while driving down the road. That alone is worth the price of admission.
Very happy with the kit and everything that was included. Install was simple and the rack easily accepted my Renogy solar panels. Everything being pre-cut and measured saved me time and effort.
The rack, once installed has been great. It took me a while to "get my understanding" of how all the pieces fit together and there are a lot of parts. It did take me the better part of a weekend to complete the install but in the end all went well. The rack is solid and I have no regrets about not getting the premium rack. My installation was on a Solis PX and due to some OEM installation placements by Winnebago I could not use the entire length on the drivers side (see photo). I was able to adapt to 8020 to work. The delivery was very quick to TX and when I used the chat to ask for clarification the company responded even though it was after hours. I have no problem recommending this company/rack if it fits your needs.
The rack layout generator was wonderful to see the potential. I work with Unaka to fine tune options, and the installation went smoothly.
The quality is great, many options for future upgrades.
I built My 1st van with 80/20 that I bought through Distribution using the UNAKA Promaster roof mounts. I did a price comparison and buying this from UNAKA vs buying through distribution and using UNAKA roof mounts the cost was equal but ordering this kit from UNAKA I got the Air Dam for free, BONUS!
I really like the finished look of the rack compared to mounting just on 80/20 with feet. And I did get 4 250W panel installed….. but what a nightmare. You have to remove all the side panels and wind fairing to install or move panels. There is no room to get the bolts started on T nuts and you will hate life. I sooo wish I would have went with the 200W panels.
Store owner replied:
Hey Dale,
Thanks so much for your feedback. Sorry to hear the install didn’t go as smoothly as planned. We’ve taken your input to heart and have updated our installation method to make things easier.
Give us a call on your next order—we’d love to make it right with a discount.
Appreciate your support!
We love our Unaka roof rack! They’re one of only a few that offer a rack in a model specifically for the Extended 170.
It’s deep enough to help hide some of the key features that get put on the roof of your van builds. We decided to add a Fiamma awning after the initial build and stopped by Unaka’s headquarters to have it installed by their team.
While installing the awning they noticed the roof rack wasn’t installed correctly by our builder and took time out of their day to correct everything.
Unaka earned our business with the quality of their product and impressed us even more after meeting their team. We will be a customer for life. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone and look forward to working with them in the future.
• Dan & Amy
I purchased and installed the premium roof rack on my 144 Sprinter. In order to fit everything I purchased light leaf solar panels; not cheap, but incredibly light. Designed primarily for marine installations.
I managed to pack 490 Watts of lightleaf panels on my MB Sprinter 144. Started with plain cargo van and have added panels, AC, Starlink mini, and vent. Also installed the front side windows and the flares so I could install bed transversely
Rack was easy to install and looks great
This is a quality roof rack. You can tell the planning and effort that went into it. Installation was pretty straightforward once I figured out the process. We were able to fit 2x250 rear and 2x200 front solar panels including an air vent in the middle, with a bit of space to spare. It requires another two cross bars that are
not included and some other nuts and bolts. Make sure to install 8020 sliding nuts for solar beforehand, or you'll be taking things apart like me! We love it and would buy it again it without a second thought. Thanks and keep it up Unaka!
Store owner replied:
Love to hear the installation was a breeze! It looks great.
I stretched out the rack to its fullest to get 3 Renogy 200W panels and 2 MaxxFans, each nestled between 2 Renogy 50W panels. No other rack I researched could handle the foot print I needed. There is a 16” gap which is there because I did not want cut into any seam welds. I like that from the street you can only see the caps of the fans. nice
Unaka was easy to work with and were quick to respond to questions. The rack arrived in good condition and packaged very well. I’m no expert and my van build will take some time to complete but the installation of rack went very smooth. Their videos and instructions are very helpful. I read through the directions and watched the videos before installing. I did the preassemble one evening and installed it the next day. I’m very happy with the quality and look of the Unaka rack. I think applying the lap sealant was the most tedious and time consuming. I would highly recommend Unaka racks to those looking for a rack for their van!
Store owner replied:
Thanks so much for these kinds words, Eric. We're really glad the installation went well... it looks incredible! Great job!
The team at Unaka installed our dream roof rack set up, including deck panels, solar panels, a ladder, and an awning. A one-stop shop! Highly recommend! Check out IG the.adventure.artists for real life photos!
I like the rack it looks good, good quality easy to assemble and sturdy. The only issue I have is the wind deflector can't handle the southern heat and sun, it bows and warps out of shape
We purchased V1 of the Premium rack for our '23 144 AWD Sprinter. While there are a lot of parts, the building process was straight-forward. All parts were safely and securely packaged. All parts were accurately counted and identified. IKEA couldn't have done a better job!
Unaka Gear Co. did a stellar job designing and packaging this product and I have no doubt V2 delivers even more!
Store owner replied:
Hey Phil,
Really appreciate the detailed feedback. We put a tremendous amount of effort into the design, packaging, and organization of these racks, so the IKEA comparison definitely made us smile.
It's great to hear everything arrived organized, accurately labeled, and that the installation process was straightforward. Thanks again for choosing Unaka Gear Co. and for taking the time to share your experience.
— Eric
Nice packaging and very clear instructions although there were a couple of places where the instructions didn't match the part numbers. No big deal as it was obvious what should be used. I installed this by myself, but as recommended, it would have been a breeze with two people. I installed 2X250W Rich solar panels in the front and a Velit A/C in the rear. Had to cut the ears off one of the solar braces to allow for joining the side rails together (also in the instructions). So far I'm pleased.
Store owner replied:
Really appreciate the detailed feedback and glad the install went smoothly overall.
Thanks as well for pointing out the part number mismatch in the instructions — that kind of feedback is genuinely helpful as we continue improving our documentation. If you happen to remember which step or parts were involved, feel free to shoot us an email so we can get it corrected for future installs.
Sounds like you put together a great setup with the solar and Velit unit. Thanks again for choosing Unaka Gear Co. and for sharing your experience.
— Eric
Same materials, cheaper price. I'm grateful you carry the standard, because the premium is closer in price to other brands, and I didn't want to spend 2k.
Store owner replied:
Hey Randy,
Really appreciate the feedback and glad the Standard Rack was a good fit for your build and budget.
We know not everyone needs all the features of a premium setup, so offering a solid, modular option at a more approachable price point has always been important to us.
Thanks again for the support and for choosing Unaka Gear Co.
— Eric
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