installing the rml90-slim
TL;DW:
When I ordered this rack, there were no instructions online, leaving me with no good way to plan out the installation. Below, you’ll find everything I couldn’t.
Link to buy: RML-90 SLIM Rack from Rogue
I recommend ordering with the stringers (+$50) for a safer, more simple installation with less measuring. The “crossmember mount” option (+$40) is what I used that offered space for a bar-holder and other accessories. I also included the pull-up bar for an additional $50.
The finished rack sits 14” away from my wall, and my car still comfortably fits in my one-car garage. The rack is perfectly suited to get under the bar for back squats, but you will not be doing any toes-to-bar or kipping pull-ups on this setup. I recommend ordering the monster lite matador for supplemental dips and core exercises.
Abridged Instructions:
I am not a professional builder—take this advice with a grain of salt. If you’re not confident in your ability to find studs and bolt things into them, you should seek help from somebody who is.
The stringers are 59”x11”, and require four studs. Studs on either side need about 1” of clearance from the edge of the stringer.
Once your studs are marked off, install the crossmembers onto the stringers. One of the holes is shaped like a teardrop, and the pointy end of it faces the middle of your rack. The placement of the crossmembers on the stringer depends on which rack you own, so double-check the instructions to make sure you’re in the right holes.
Rogue recommends the lowest edge of your bottom stringer sits 1-5/16” from the floor, but it can be moved up in 2” increments. This height is dictated by the holes in your uprights, which must rest on the ground. Make sure you correctly measured the stringer’s height right by temporarily attaching them to your wall with drywall screws. Stand up the upright and make sure the bolts can go through.
Once the bottom stringer is attached to the wall with the included lag screws, bolt the crossmember to your upright (finger-tight), and then attach the top crossmember to the desired top-section of the upright. Use the holes in the crossmember to determine the location of the top stringer. This is demonstrated in the video up above. Maybe you should watch it after all.
Floor-height and slope are your big x-factors. If your floor isn’t level, you’re going to have to find a way to make up the difference in the height of the stringers. I strongly recommend installing on top of rubber stall mats, which will give you some wiggle room for digging out a section of the floor.
Instruction manual for RML-90SLIM Rack with crossmembers
Instruction manual for Fold Back Rack Stringers
Installation Tools:
(Amazon links are affiliate links)
Makita 18V LXT driver / drill combo set
23-piece DEWALT drive socket set
Bosch 21 Piece black oxide metal drill bit set