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Old 03-13-2016, 10:33 AM   #1
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Roof Rack Install

Just purchased 2001 Ford SMB w/ PH in Jan. Already getting lots of use, but anxious to install roof racks - probably with either Thules or Yakimas. All we'll be using them for are surfboards, 58 pound canoe & maybe cargo box.

I've searched the threads but can't find anything on point re: installation.

I'm paranoid of damaging the PH w/ errors in install. Any suggestions? Do most owners have SMB do the install, or is this a simple process that is easily accomplished??

Thanks,

Seth in FL

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Old 03-13-2016, 11:20 AM   #2
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The problem I've seen is people punching through the fiberglass and into the canvas. The tops taper so you really need to make sure where to drill. I also found that it's a good idea to use bolt caps on the inside so when the top is closed the bolts don't rub a hole in the canvas.
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Old 03-13-2016, 12:14 PM   #3
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You also want to put a large fender washer or similar between the fiberglass and the cap bolts. The washers will spread the load as you tighten them down. A bead of butyl rubber caulk around each bolt hole will help prevent water intrusion.
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Old 03-13-2016, 12:16 PM   #4
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This thread points to instructions that sportsmobile used. It was about the 15th thread down on the first page of results from searching "thule tracks"


http://www.sportsmobileforum.com/for...top-15019.html

hope this helps


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Old 03-17-2016, 09:56 AM   #5
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I am doing the same thing now. I think I am going to cut down the 60 inchers and set it up as front and back. This way I can move the front bar along the front track and back bar along the back track. I would need to adjust if I needed to move a bar to another track, but should have more flexibility. Will have a small gap in the middle.

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Old 03-17-2016, 11:55 AM   #6
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If installing the tracks seem too risky, you can also install the artificial rain gutter on the side of the penthouse top. You won't get the adjustability of the tracks, but you can install as many sets as you need to get coverage to the front.
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Old 03-18-2016, 07:37 PM   #7
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The install went pretty good. I believe the front racks are parallel but know the rear are not. The fronts will be adjusted more than the back. I used the full 60 inches in front and cut down two holes for the rear. The original hardware did not work, so had to head to ACE for some longer bolts. All holes outside of canvas.

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Old 03-20-2016, 08:01 AM   #8
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Thanks everyone. Very helpful. The side artificial rain gutters on side seems simpler, and possibly less prone to leakage?? Any thoughts? Mikracer - is that what you did, simply drilling through sides of PH top?
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Old 03-20-2016, 08:34 AM   #9
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I had Yakima tracks installed in my PH SMB, never leaked. The PH top bolts were a different story.
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Old 03-20-2016, 09:13 AM   #10
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Surfmobile,

I have a two sets of towers and side gutters with all the mounting hardward that I will sell. If interested, PM me.

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