Overview
The Smittybilt 45454 is a welded one-piece Defender cargo basket measuring 4.5 ft. wide and 4.5 ft. long, with 4 in. sides. It is built from 16-gauge, fully welded, 1 in. round steel tubing.
The basket is universal in application, and a vehicle-specific mounting kit is required and sold separately. Drilling is required before mounting.
The welded light tabs are placed four at the front and two at the rear. The basket’s aerodynamic styling and integrated flooring are meant to suit modern vehicles.
Key features
- Welded one-piece construction
- 16-gauge, 1 in. round steel tubing
- Welded light tabs: four front and two rear
- Aerodynamic styling
- Integrated flooring
Welded racks and roof loads
A welded basket cannot be adjusted after it is made, so the size has to suit the roof and the cargo you carry. Measure the roof and plan the load before buying. Keep heavy items low and centered, and spread weight across the floor rather than piling it at one end of the basket.
Roof racks raise the center of gravity, which affects braking and cornering. Take corners slower with a loaded basket and allow more distance to stop. Check the mounting points and welds after rough trails, since vibration can loosen fasteners that hold the rack to the roof. Keep tire pressure and wheel alignment in check, because a loaded roof changes how the vehicle tracks.
- Plan the load before mounting
- Check fasteners after rough trails
- Allow extra stopping distance with a loaded basket
Specifications
| Brand | Smittybilt |
|---|---|
| Part number | 45454 |
| UPC | 631410114621 |
| Product type | Roof rack, cargo basket |
| Construction | Welded, one piece |
| Size | 4.5 ft. wide x 4.5 ft. long, 4 in. sides |
| Material | 16-gauge steel, 1 in. round tubing |
| Finish | Textured black powder coat |
| Drilling step | Required before mounting |
Vehicle fitment
It is universal in application, but its vehicle-specific mounting kit determines the fit. Confirm that the kit covers your vehicle.
Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Drilling is required for this basket. Confirm the mounting points and roof clearance before drilling, since the welded frame cannot be adjusted once it is fixed.
What’s included
The welded one-piece basket is included. The mounting system is sold separately.
Not included: The vehicle-specific mounting kit.
