Roof Rack

[okfoz]

Although I like the idea of being able to plug the holes, and I like the way it looks, I have a question for you.

Why did you drill out the threaded sleeves? Were they rusty or damaged?

It just seems that now that the sleeves are gone, it would be very difficult to go backwards when you sell it...

 

[shundal]

Although I like the idea of being able to plug the holes, and I like the way it looks, I have a question for you.

Why did you drill out the threaded sleeves? Were they rusty or damaged?

It just seems that now that the sleeves are gone, it would be very difficult to go backwards when you sell it...

Probably to make the caps sit flush. Otherwise the threaded sleeve sits above the roof surface by maybe an 1/8 to 1/4 inch.

Personally, I like the molding idea as it doesn't stand out and is easily reversible. Mine however, is shaved and repainted.

 

[okfoz]

As anyone figured out where to get the molding? Or is it a generic molding from an auto paint-shop/store?

 

[shundal]

The molding is generic. This site seems to have a lot of options. http://www.brandsport.com/auto-trim.html

 

[okfoz]

Next stupid question of the day...

What width would be ideal?

1" might be too narrow...The White LTZ appears to be about 1.5" wide, maybe 2" wide..

That and I will have to figure out what color, or just go with black... my truck looks to be the same color as bow-tielover's...

The Chrome would look kind of sweet too with the formed ends... unfortunately they only come in 49" or shorter lengths... I think I need at least 6' - 8'

John

 

[sbubbaklein]

I thought about rack removal and really felt the only professional way was to weld up the holes and repaint the roof. I decided to install Escalade roof rails and left the cross pieces off.

 

[okfoz]

Normally I would agree with you, however I felt that because unless I was standing on a ladder (I am only 6' tall) I could not see the top...

Not like it would make a huge difference, I like the way the esky roof racks look, Probably minimally more aero friendly, but If I wanted aero & fuel economy I would have gotten a prius.. I kind of like the way it looks without the rack at all...

John

I thought about rack removal and really felt the only professional way was to weld up the holes and repaint the roof. I decided to install Escalade roof rails and left the cross pieces off.

 

[minytrker]

Did you remove your headliner when you did this?

Update:

I drilled out the threaded sleeves for the roof rack bolts. Then I bought some automotive panel fasteners from Ace Hardware for $.50 each. I dabbed a little RTV silicone around the fasteners before pushing them in to prevent any water intrusion. They sit pretty flush and aren't that noticeable so I'm happy.


These are pictures from the day I did the removal (about 2 months ago). I have since then had the truck buffed out (discoloration removed).

 

[LADenali]

I like this idea, I will go to the hardware stores around my area and look for the same inserts.

 

[bow-tielover]

Although I like the idea of being able to plug the holes, and I like the way it looks, I have a question for you.

Why did you drill out the threaded sleeves? Were they rusty or damaged?

It just seems that now that the sleeves are gone, it would be very difficult to go backwards when you sell it...

Like Shundal said, to make the caps sit flush. The sleeves stick up a good 1/4 inch. My first attempt was putting pan head hex bolts in them, but they were too noticeable. I never plan on using the rack and if someone wanted to add one in the future, they could easily press in new sleeves.