Platform Rack Stabilisers — Robert's Workshop

Requirement

With the platform rack fitted to Mountain Top cross bars, items in the pick-up bed became difficult to reach — especially anything stowed near the front. The cross bars are designed so the whole platform rack can pivot to either side, which meant the stabilising struts also needed to work when mounted on either side.

Shows difficulty in locating items in load bed

Design & CAD

Fusion 360 was used to design the three parts needed to complete the job. The brief was simple: solid parts that are easy to assemble and use. Both the top and bottom brackets have recessed pockets for the holding screws, so the screw heads can't scratch the vehicle's bodywork.

Fabrication & build notes

The parts print best in ASA or PETG — PLA will work as a last resort, but isn't ideal for this application. Download files include individual STL files plus a pre-configured 3MF file. Print with 4 perimeters, 40% infill, and supports enabled for the bottom bracket. After printing, run the pin through the top bracket a few times to clear the threads before assembly.

For assembly you'll need two lengths of 1 inch (25.4mm), 1.5mm-wall polished stainless steel tubing, cut to 520mm, plus four M4 x 8mm screws — socket button head screws were used here for a cleaner look. File a small flat at each end of the tubes so the screws can locate and hold the brackets properly. Don't overtighten the holding screws; they're only there to keep the brackets symmetrical, not to clamp hard.

Safety warning

Under no circumstances should the vehicle be moved with the platform stabiliser struts in place. The struts must be removed before the vehicle is moved.