‘02 Chevy Tahoe Roof Rack issue

[Ecc97]

Ok so I’ve tried searching through all the threads but can’t find an answer. I took the OEM Roof rack off of my 2002 Chevy Tahoe z71 to paint it and replace it. Foolishly I used my drill to secure the holes on top of the Tahoe with the screws that came out of them and accidentally over tightened a couple of them. Now, I’ve got the rack painted but two screws can’t be removed because they spin along with what you call the bolt in the roof I guess, and two of the screws are stripped cause they’re just too old. I don’t know how to remove those screws and I can’t put the rack back unless I do. Please help, thanks.

 

[justirv]

Ok so I’ve tried searching through all the threads but can’t find an answer. I took the OEM Roof rack off of my 2002 Chevy Tahoe z71 to paint it and replace it. Foolishly I used my drill to secure the holes on top of the Tahoe with the screws that came out of them and accidentally over tightened a couple of them. Now, I’ve got the rack painted but two screws can’t be removed because they spin along with what you call the bolt in the roof I guess, and two of the screws are stripped cause they’re just too old. I don’t know how to remove those screws and I can’t put the rack back unless I do. Please help, thanks.

I have the exact year and model as you. I have not pulled my rack yet, but plan to for re-paint or full body wrap. I appreciate your post as lessons learned. The only thing I can think of is pulling the headliner board/panel to gain access. I have seen instructions here somewhere on the process. If you go that route you may want to have that re-covered while it's out. Others may have a better solution.