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Click for larger image Yakima Tracks With Bolts 54IN

Yakima Tracks With Bolts 54IN

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Other:$124.99

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Product Information

Binding: Misc.
EAN: 0736745011383
Label: Yakima
Feature: Compatible with Control Towers and Landing Pad 1
Publisher: Yakima
Studio: Yakima

Description

Easy to connect and designed with a low profile when towers are removed, the Yakima Tracks include Bolts so that you can permanently install your rooftop car rack system directly to a vehicle roof. . Product ID: 218508

Customer Reviews

I bought this track for a '99 Honda Accord. Unfortunately, this vehicle was not listed in the "Track Fit Sheet", sent with the item. I called Yakima, but they couldn't help -- only a few specified vehicles are spec'd out for the track.

So I winged it, and did end up drilling two extra holes in my roof -- both times I hit double sheet metal, which would not allow Plus nut installation. But no matter, they were just the 1/8 inch pilot holes, easy to fill with silicone, and hidden under the track.

But the real issues came with the Plus Nut tool, provided by Yakima. First one broke after about 4 Plus nuts, but they had provided a second tool (They must be aware that the tool is low grade/defective), which snapped after 4 more Plus nuts. I modified the tool by trimming 3/8" off the aluminum block -- this worked for two more nuts, then broke. Using the modified block, I was able to place the final 2 nuts with the remaining piece of threaded rod. I don't think it would do one more.....!

The track went on, but one of the Plus Nuts stripped when almost completely in. This was the leading front edge, on the front of the roof, with the maximum bend. My suggestion: Start here, then tighten front to back, making sure that you push the track down completely. The threads on the nuts aren't strong enough to suck the track down over a major bend in the roof.

Finally, not enough plus nuts were provided -- I was two short for my installation.

The finished product is ok, at best, in my opinion. The end caps on the track are made for a flat surface only, and do not sit flush to a curved roof. This could be improved by making the end caps out of a malleable metal like aluminum, rather than sloppy plastic, which would allow you to bend the caps slightly to fit your curvature.

Anyway, this product is a great idea, and has a lot of potential. But I feel that Yakima is nickle and diming the consumer with cheap hardware and tools.

Happy Biking! Al Schnorgenburg
This results in a much nicer rack set-up than raingutter or door mount. It's a more permanent solution, yet the tracks aren't that noticeable once the rack is removed (which is quick and simple). These tracks are more flexible and have better attachment hardware that cheaper alternatives (plusnuts vs. screws). To be fair, Thule also seems good. I was nervous about drilling holes in the roof, but it wasn't that bad. You do need to follow instructions carefully, and realize that recommended hole locations aren't available for all vehicles (I found out that right over the door column isn't the best choice). A depth limiter (other than tape on the bit) is important, and a drill guide (to keep the bit from sliding and perpendicular) would be helpful. Even with an indentation from a punch, the bit still can slide. The end result - a 3000 mile trip with a fully loaded hardshell cartop carrier, no leaks, and completely solid. I'm very pleased with these tracks, and with Yakima customer service.
This rack (or Thule's similar one) is the best option I'm aware of for vehicles that don't come with a roof rack. A few things to keep in mind:
- You have to drill holes in your roof
- This part (the track) never comes off once you put it on

Pluses:
- Professional look
- Secure (strong)
- Package comes with drill bit & silicone sealant
- Flexible enough to conform to most roofs. I installed these on a Prius; if they fit that shape, they should fit most vehicles. I pre-bent the rails to reduce stress on the bolts.
- The expanding nuts (PlusNuts) are great; they go in easily and securely

Minuses
- No fit guides for current vehicles
- Many current vehicles have curtain airbags, so you'll want to peek under the headliner to find them & not drill into them. I didn't have to drop the headliner, only peek under the edges.
- You have to be comfortable with tools (drill, measuring tape, etc. ), or you'll make a mess
 
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