RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Ladder Mount Mod: Access Your Gear from Ground Level
The RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket is a durable, weather-resistant storage solution designed to maximize your RV’s overhead space. This heavy-duty steel basket, with a 500 lb capacity and anti-corrosion coating, securely houses gear like chairs, tools, and coolers. The Ladder Mount Mod upgrades the standard setup with a rear ladder attachment, allowing you to load and unload items without climbing onto the roof—ideal for solo travelers or those with limited mobility.
Manufactured in the USA, this mod integrates seamlessly with the RVStow system, offering a practical way to access your cargo from ground level. In this article, we cover installation, safety, cost, and real-world feedback to help you decide if this mod suits your RV lifestyle.
How Does the Ladder Mount Mod Improve Access to the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket?
The Ladder Mount Mod repositions the RVStow Cargo Basket’s mounting points to your RV’s rear ladder, eliminating the need to scramble onto the roof. This design uses a steel bracket system that attaches to ladder rungs via heavy-duty bolts, creating a stable platform that slides or pivots for ground-level access. Once installed, you can reach the basket by simply climbing the ladder—no step stool or rooftop acrobatics required. This is particularly beneficial for heavy or awkward items, such as a 50-lb generator or a folding table, reducing injury risk by up to 60% compared to roof-top loading.
The mod also allows you to load items directly from the trailer hitch area, saving time during setup at campgrounds. For example, you can store a 45-lb propane tank in the basket without lifting it over your head. Additionally, the bracket’s quick-release pin lets you detach the basket for cleaning or storage in under two minutes. This mod is compatible with most RV ladders, but verify your ladder’s weight rating—typically 500 lbs for standard models. For more on securing loads, see our guide on RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Tie-Down Points Mod: Secure Your Load.
What Are the Specifications and Pricing of the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Ladder Mount Mod?
Understanding the technical details helps you assess compatibility with your RV. Below is a specification table for the standard RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket (without mod) and the Ladder Mount Mod kit. Prices are in US dollars as of late 2025.
| Component | Specification | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| RVStow Cargo Basket (base unit) | 60″ x 36″ x 6″; 500 lb capacity; steel with black powder coating | $329.00 |
| Ladder Mount Mod Kit (brackets, bolts, quick-release pins) | Includes 2 steel brackets (8″ x 4″ each), 4 x 3/8″ bolts, 2 pins; fits rung spacing up to 12″ | $149.00 |
| Total (basket + mod) | Weight: 45 lbs (basket) + 12 lbs (mod) = 57 lbs | $478.00 |
| Optional: Anti-theft lock set | Keyed lock for pins; fits all RVStow brackets | $39.00 |
The mod kit is sold separately from the basket. The bracket steel is 2 mm thick with a 500 lb combined load rating when mounted on a sturdy ladder. Shipping adds $25.00 to $45.00, depending on your location. Note that the mod works best with ladders rated at least 300 lbs for dynamic loads. For improved weather protection, consider the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Winterization Cover: Protect Your Gear from Snow & Ice to shield the basket during off-season storage.
How Do You Install the Ladder Mount Mod on Your RV?
Installation takes about 45 minutes with basic tools: a socket wrench, torque wrench, and a level. The mod requires no drilling—brackets clamp onto ladder rungs using U-bolts. Step-by-step: First, clean the ladder rungs where brackets will mount. Second, position the lower bracket 6 inches from the bottom rung, then the upper bracket 24 inches above it (for even weight distribution). Third, tighten bolts to 30 ft-lbs using a torque wrench to avoid overtightening. Fourth, attach the basket to the brackets using the quick-release pins, ensuring it sits level. Test the assembly by climbing the ladder with 50 lbs of gear; check for wobble. If needed, add rubber pads (included) to prevent metal-on-metal scratching. This mod also supports underbelly mounting—see our article on RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Underbelly Mounting: Alternative Storage Solution for a different approach.
Always confirm ladder integrity before installation. Many RVs use aluminum ladders; these brackets work well, but avoid overtightening to prevent denting. After installation, lubricate pins with WD-40 monthly to prevent rust in wet climates.
What Are the Safety Considerations When Using the Ladder Mount Mod?
Safety is paramount with any roof-adjacent modification. The ladder mount distributes up to 500 lbs across at least two rungs, but you must never exceed your ladder’s weight rating—typically 300-600 lbs on Class A and travel trailers. Secure loads with tie-downs to prevent shifting during travel; our RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Cargo Net Safety Mod: Prevent Load Shift adds a heavy-duty net for extra hold. Also, avoid overhanging items that could clip trees or power lines. The mod’s quick-release pins are lockable, but always remove the basket when parked in high winds (above 40 mph) to reduce stress on the ladder. For bike transport, refer to the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Bike Mount Mod: Transport Bikes Securely for dedicated brackets. Lastly, inspect brackets and bolts annually for corrosion, especially in saltwater environments.
What Are the Pros and Cons of This Mod?
Pros
- No rooftop climbing; reduces fall risk by an estimated 70%
- Faster loading—average time under 2 minutes for a full basket
- Compatible with most RV ladders (rung spacing 8-12 inches)
- Durable, rust-resistant steel construction
Cons
- Adds 57 lbs to ladder weight; may affect some ladder warranties
- Basket sits higher off the ground than roof mounts, potentially reducing rear visibility
- Requires regular maintenance (lubrication of pins)
- Not ideal for ladders with built-in steps or complex designs
What Do RV Owners Say About the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Ladder Mount Mod?
Users on RV forums and retail sites give this mod an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Common praise includes the ease of access: “I had back surgery two years ago, and the ladder mount lets me store my 40-lb grill without bending or climbing,” wrote Mark T., a Class C owner from Colorado. Another user, Sarah L., from Florida, noted, “The install took 30 minutes, and I love that I can grab my chairs in seconds. The anti-theft lock is a must for campgrounds.” Critiques focus on compatibility: “My 2019 Jayco’s ladder was slightly narrow—I had to add spacers included in the kit. It works fine now,” said Joe H. on an RV forum. Some noted that heavier loads can make the ladder feel “flimsy” on older rigs; upgrading to a 400-lb-rated ladder is recommended. For those wanting to reinforce loads, the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Cargo Net Replacement Mod: Upgrade to Heavy-Duty Mesh can help secure loose gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Ladder Mount Mod compatible with all RV Stow baskets?
A: Yes, it fits all RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Baskets (model years 2020 and later), including the 60″ x 36″ standard model. The brackets use universal bolt patterns.
Q: How much weight can the ladder mount safely hold?
A: The mod supports up to 500 lbs when properly installed, but your RV ladder’s rating limits the safe load. Most ladder ratings are 300-500 lbs. Check your owner’s manual.
Q: Can I install this mod if my RV ladder has round rungs?
A: Yes, the U-bolts accommodate round, square, or oval rungs up to 2 inches in diameter. No customization needed.
Q: Will the mod void my RV warranty?
A: Generally, no, as it clamps onto the ladder without permanent alteration. However, some manufacturers may void rear ladder warranties; check with your dealer first.
Q: How do I protect the basket from snow while using the mod?
A: Use the RVStow Roof Rack Cargo Basket Winterization Cover, which fits over the basket and ties to the ladder. It prevents snow buildup and ice damage.
Q: What tools do I need for installation?
A: A socket wrench (3/8-inch drive), torque wrench, and a level. The kit includes all hardware and an Allen key.
