Eberlestock mainframe load lifters

[Timnterra]

I’ve had a mainframe for several years and finally decided that it was time to fix its inherent flaws. I initially purchased a super spike camp duffle but have never actually used it because the zipper attachment made using other features of the pack impossible. I ended up running a Kifaru nomad pack on the mainframe and it is better but not perfect,
1. The frame is too short for me and the straps sit too high to ever lift the load off my shoulders.
2. The frame shelf is usually in the way and not very useful even when used as intended.
3. The zipper pouch attachment method renders the other attachment options useless.

solution
1. Extend the frame above the pack: I thought of lots of ways I could do this but settled on the cheapest most simple method. I cut the load shelf off and attached it to the top of the pack frame. The plastic clips that were on the frame provided the perfect hole location for me. I simply drilled through both pieces and bolted it together with stainless 1/4” carriage bolts. I had to remove about 1” from the width of the load shelf so that it would fit in between the uprights. I cut some holes for the frame extension to stick out the top of the pack. I slid the extension down through the top and pushed the frame back in from the bottom and bolted them together inside the bag.

2, the fix for the load shelf was just to remove it. I will use a Kifaru grab it instead. That way it will not be in the way when not in use. I got some 5/8” plastic plugs at the hardware store and capped the cut ends of the frame. I am still thinking about the best way to capture those ends to keep the frame pulled tight into the bag.

3. the zipper attachment will not be used. I’m having custom batwing pouches made that resemble the bags on a Kifaru nomad 2. They will attach to the MOLLE portion of the mainframe using webbing and Kifaru k-clips. I was initially going to replace the nomad with a nomad 2 but then I realized that the mainframe pack already has the center portion of the nomad 2 built in so why not just have the side pockets made. I’ll update this when the pockets are finished.

I am excited about this pack for the first time in a long time. I think it will do a much better job than before.

 

[Jeff_RBGCo]

Man I’m glad to see you hack this frame. I have the carrier frame from them without the shelf and have similar complaints. I used one of their large zip on duffles with two bat wings and a spider web of home brew 1” straps and buckles from the army surplus store to get me through this elk season but it was terrible and all my mystery ranch wearing buddies teased me relentlessly. I was so annoyed with the crappy set up that I emailed ebrelestock and asked them if their new light weight packs that attach to this frame would be any better. The sales guy acted insulted and told me how great the pack was at handling large bulky loads and accompanied the reply with a picture of one of these packs filled with light weight stuffing and attached to a headless mannequin in their display room. Needless to say I was rude in my response. I love the suspension system and how well the frame manages the weight of something compact like an animal quarter with just the molle flap and compression straps but it is terrible at keeping a bulky load where you want it. I have been thinking about building a beaver tail type flap that attaches to the base of the frame by your butt and wraps around the Bottom of your load, weaves a couple straps up through the molle panel and attaches to the two loops at the top of the frame. This would keep the lower load from flopping around like an overused diaper. Those two long zippers were the only thing holding me back. I anxiously await pictures of your completed project.