TANX 51" x 36" x Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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In this tanx 51 x 36 x review, we look at the TANX 51x36x5 Roof Rack Basket. This cargo carrier is built from heavy-duty steel with a black powder coat. It measures 51 inches long, 36 inches wide, and 5 inches high. The basket holds up to 175 pounds of distributed weight. It also includes a 15 cubic foot waterproof bag. This setup adds rooftop storage without changing your vehicle’s profile. You get a secure base for bulky gear. The design focuses on practical capacity and durability for everyday road trips.
What stands out
- 175 lbs weight capacity for heavy loads
- 51" x 36" x 5" steel basket dimensions
- Includes 15 cubic feet waterproof cargo bag
- Heavy-duty tubular steel with powder-coated finish
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should choose this carrier if you need extra space for camping gear or luggage. The 175-pound capacity handles bulky items like coolers or equipment. The included waterproof bag protects contents from rain and dust. It fits most SUVs and trucks with crossbars. If you want a simple, durable solution for road trips, this basket provides reliable storage. The steel construction resists corrosion, ensuring long-term use.
Who should skip it
Skip this option if you need a sleek, low-profile aerodynamic box. This open basket design creates more wind noise and drag. You must secure items with the included net and straps. If you prefer a locked, enclosed space for valuables, this open rack is not suitable. The 5-inch rail height limits deep item storage. Drivers seeking minimal impact on fuel economy should look elsewhere.
Verdict: The TANX 51x36x5 offers solid steel capacity and includes a waterproof bag for practical storage. It suits buyers needing heavy-duty, open-air cargo space on SUVs or trucks.
TANX 51x36x5 Key Specs Explained
Weight Capacity: 175 lbs
This limit defines the maximum distributed load the steel frame supports. You can safely carry heavy items like luggage or coolers without risking structural failure. Compare this to lighter aluminum carriers, which often cap at 150 lbs. Exceeding this weight strains the mount and affects vehicle handling.
Basket Dimensions: 51" x 36" x 5"
These measurements determine the footprint and vertical clearance on your roof. The 5-inch side rail height keeps gear contained but may limit tall items. The 51x36 inch base fits most standard crossbars. Check your vehicle’s roof width to ensure the basket does not overhang the sides significantly.
Weight: 40.7 pounds
This is the empty weight of the steel basket itself. A heavier carrier adds more drag and reduces fuel efficiency compared to lightweight plastic boxes. Ensure your roof rack’s dynamic load rating exceeds this weight plus your cargo. Heavier baskets often offer greater durability against impact.
Mount Type: roof-mount (crossbars)
This carrier attaches directly to existing crossbars or roof rails. It requires a rack system rather than mounting to bare roof rails. Verify your vehicle has compatible crossbars before purchase. This mount type offers flexibility for removing the basket when not in use, unlike fixed roof boxes.
Includes Bag: With Bag
The package includes a 15 cubic foot waterproof bag for extra protection. This allows you to shield delicate items from rain and dust while using the open basket. Compare this to carriers sold without bags, which require separate purchases. The bag adds versatility for weather-sensitive cargo.
Steel Frame And Powder Coat Finish
According to the listing, the basket is constructed from high-strength tubular steel. It features a black powder-coated finish designed to resist corrosion. This material choice prioritizes durability over weight reduction. Steel frames generally offer higher rigidity than aluminum alternatives, which can be beneficial when carrying heavy loads. The finish protects the metal from road salt and moisture during travel. You should inspect the coating for chips after installation to maintain this protection over time.
The unit weighs 40.7 pounds. This mass adds significant weight to your vehicle roof. You must ensure your roof rack crossbars can support both this carrier weight and the 175-pound load capacity. The dimensions are 51 inches long, 36 inches wide, and 5 inches high. The low side rail height limits the volume of tall items you can stack. It is best suited for flat, bulky gear like luggage or sleeping bags rather than deep containers.
The listing notes a universal fit for most roof racks on SUVs and trucks. It mounts directly to crossbars or roof rails. The design is simple with no moving parts or complex controls. This simplicity reduces potential failure points. However, the steel construction requires careful handling during installation to avoid scratching your vehicle. The heavy material also makes removal and storage more difficult when not in use.
Setup And Daily Use Guide
Mounting the TANX 51x36x5 basket requires crossbars on your SUV or truck. The listing states it fits most roof rails. You place the steel frame onto your existing bars. The 40.7-pound weight makes handling manageable for one person during installation. Once positioned, you secure the carrier using the included hardware. The design relies on standard crossbar mounting, so you must verify your vehicle’s bar spacing and width before loading gear.
For daily use, the 51-inch by 36-inch base offers a large footprint. The 5-inch side rail height limits how high you can stack items. You must use the included elastic cargo net and ratchet straps to keep luggage, coolers, or equipment from shifting. These ties prevent movement during transit, which is critical for maintaining vehicle stability. The net hooks attach to the steel frame, providing anchor points for your load.
The package also includes a 15-cubic-foot waterproof bag measuring 44 by 34 by 17 inches. You can place this bag inside the basket or on top of your stacked gear. The heavy-duty material shields contents from rain, snow, wind, and dust. This dual-layer approach allows you to carry bulky items without compromising interior space. The black powder-coated finish resists corrosion, ensuring the carrier remains functional through regular seasonal use. Always distribute the 175-pound weight limit evenly across the steel frame to avoid stress points.
Check Compatibility And Needs
Before purchasing the TANX 51x36x5 Roof Rack Basket, verify your vehicle’s crossbar width and spacing. The basket mounts directly to crossbars, so you need compatible bars on your SUV or truck. Measure your roof rails to ensure the 51-inch length does not overhang excessively. This steel carrier adds 40.7 pounds to your vehicle’s roof load. You must account for this weight alongside your cargo’s 175-pound limit. The included 15-cubic-foot waterproof bag protects gear from rain and dust. However, you may need additional tie-downs for very bulky items. Regularly inspect the powder-coated steel for chips or rust, especially after winter drives. Clean the frame with mild soap to preserve the finish. This basket suits buyers needing high capacity and durability. It contrasts with softer, fabric-only carriers by offering rigid steel support. Choose this if you prioritize structural strength over minimal weight.
Check before you buy
- Measure your crossbar width to ensure secure mounting
- Check your vehicle’s dynamic roof load limit
- Verify the 51-inch length fits your roof space
- Inspect existing crossbars for rust or damage
The product at a glance
TANX 51x36x5 Roof Rack Basket
Best for: SUV owners needing durable steel storage
- Mount Type
- roof-mount (crossbars)
- Weight Capacity
- 175 lbs
- Basket Dimensions
- 51" x 36" x 5"
- Side Rail Height
- 5"
- Vehicle Type
- SUV, Truck
- Includes Bag
- With Bag
View on Amazon: TANX 51x36x5 Roof Rack Basket Affiliate link
The TANX roof basket is a 51 x 36 x 5 inch steel carrier with a 175 lb weight capacity. It weighs 40.7 pounds and mounts to crossbars. This set includes a 15 cubic foot waterproof bag and a cargo net. It suits SUV and truck owners needing durable, open storage for bulky gear like luggage or coolers.
Pros
- 175 lbs distributed weight capacity
- Heavy-duty tubular steel construction
- Includes 15 cu ft waterproof bag
- Comes with cargo net and straps
Cons
- 5 inch side rail height limits volume
- 40.7 pound weight adds roof load
- Requires separate crossbar mounting system
Good fit if
- You need a durable steel basket
- You want included waterproof bag
- You carry bulky, non-weather-sensitive gear
Skip if
- You require high-volume enclosed storage
- You have low weight capacity limits
- You need aerodynamic low-drag design
Verdict: TANX 51x36 Steel Roof Basket offers robust steel construction and included accessories for SUV owners. It fits those prioritizing durability and open-air utility over sleek aerodynamics.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TANX 51x36x5 Roof Rack Basket |
|---|---|
| Mount Type | roof-mount (crossbars) |
| Weight Capacity | 175 lbs |
| Basket Dimensions | 51" x 36" x 5" |
| Side Rail Height | 5" |
| Vehicle Type | SUV, Truck |
| Includes Bag | With Bag |
| Includes Net | With Net |
| Dimensions | 51 × 36 × 5 inches |
| Weight | 40.7 pounds |
| Size | ROOF 51" and BAG |
| Color | Black |
| Model | RT-03BB01 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the TANX 51x36x5 come with a cargo net?
Yes, this roof rack basket includes a cargo net. The product listing confirms that the package comes with a net to help secure your items during transport. This feature adds safety for loose cargo without requiring you to purchase separate accessories.
Is this basket suitable for a truck?
Yes, the TANX 51x36x5 is designed for both SUVs and trucks. The specifications list these vehicle types as compatible. You can mount this steel basket on the roof of most trucks that have crossbars or roof rails installed.
What is the weight of the TANX roof basket?
The basket weighs 40.7 pounds. This weight is manageable for most adults to lift onto a vehicle roof. Keep in mind that this is just the carrier weight, so you must stay within the 175-pound total load limit.
Does it include a storage bag?
Yes, the product includes a storage bag. This allows you to keep the basket protected when it is not in use. The bag helps prevent scratches and dust accumulation during the off-season or when the carrier is stored indoors.
What are the exact dimensions of this cargo carrier?
The dimensions are 51 inches in length, 36 inches in width, and 5 inches in height. These measurements define the footprint and vertical space available for your gear. Ensure your vehicle roof can accommodate this size without interfering with doors or windows.
Is the TANX basket made of steel or aluminum?
It is made of steel. The listing specifies a steel construction with a black powder-coated finish. Steel offers high durability and rigidity, making it a robust choice for carrying heavy loads compared to lighter materials like aluminum.