Factory Roof Rack

montana nate · 04-08-2008, 01:42 PM

I'm looking to buy a 96-2000 4Runner and have run across a few without a factory rack, the only thing up there is a thin black rib on either side (not just a rack without it's cross bars, but a thin rib that nothing could attach to). Is it possible to retrofit the factory rack??

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**aviator** · 04-08-2008, 02:17 PM

I think that rib you are talking about is just the raingutter thingy but you probably could change it to the roof rack strip. Don't take my word for it though I have'nt looked at those runners very closely to say for sure either way. Somebody here will know better...

mpavolka · 04-08-2008, 10:08 PM

I am sure it would be possible to attach a factory rack. However you risk causing a leak and/or drilling through you ceiling apholstry. If it were me I would just get a Thule or Yakima rack that attaches to the gutters at the top of the door opening.

Like this one on my brother's previous car

michalik_piotr · 04-08-2008, 11:35 PM

i just took my oem rack off and put on a yakima. the guy who bought my oem one had a 4runner that came w/o and i believe under that strip hidden are threaded inserts. pray that up and check. if there are no threaded inserts, i would NOT just screw it to the top with sheet metal screws. those things are already flimsy enough, its why i took it off. if you plan on having surfboards or a rocket box it will most likely flex and flop in the wind on the freway. i've seen em do that is why i took mine off.

TRT4Runner · 04-09-2008, 05:11 AM

I'm a newb and have been researching the whole roof rack thing myself as I have a '99 SR5 w/o the factory rack. I do have the two strips and can tell you that there are 4? torx or star fasteners that hold the strips to the roof. My understanding is that you can buy the rails and just replace the strips. They should fasten to the roof the same way.

montana nate · 04-09-2008, 05:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TRT4Runner

I'm a newb and have been researching the whole roof rack thing myself as I have a '99 SR5 w/o the factory rack. I do have the two strips and can tell you that there are 4? torx or star fasteners that hold the strips to the roof. My understanding is that you can buy the rails and just replace the strips. They should fasten to the roof the same way.

I hope this is the case and I really can't see a reason why Toyota would install those strips up there for no reason, they must be in place of what would be the factory rack.

The truck I bought came with a Yakima rack up front, but I would like the option to have stuff in the back ..... those racks up front make a lot of noise and I like running with the sunroof open.

TRT4Runner · 04-09-2008, 06:21 AM

I believe some came w/o anything on the roof (no black strips or actual roof rack) those are the one that would have to drill into the roof to attach a factory rack. Like I said, I'm new to the game, but I've been doing alot of browsing and searching on the subject and I'm 99% sure of this. Maybe a vet can chime in and be absolutely positive.

michalik_piotr · 04-09-2008, 07:03 AM

right, right....i forgot, the torx screws. if you have those you're good. thats where the rack will bolt to!

montana nate · 04-09-2008, 08:46 AM

Cool, now I need to find a used rack somewhere!

Roadtripr · 04-09-2008, 09:44 AM

Remember to put some silicon or similar sealant on the screws when you put your new rack in. You want it to stand up to years of rain.

montana nate · 04-09-2008, 01:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Roadtripr

Remember to put some silicon or similar sealant on the screws when you put your new rack in. You want it to stand up to years of rain.

No worries, I live in Bellingham, WA (about 70 miles north of Seattle) and it "never rains as much as they say out here" ........ this what everyone told me before I moved here, I'm calling BS

PReD777 · 04-09-2008, 03:51 PM

what are you looking to put on the rack? this has some outcome to what rigging will work...

Fo-runna · 04-09-2008, 04:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by montana nate

Cool, now I need to find a used rack somewhere!

You and me both!
I also have the black strips with the screws and am in search of a rack. While we are on the topic, anybody have experience with a kayak or canoe on the factory roof rack?

d0ubledown · 04-09-2008, 08:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by montana nate

I hope this is the case and I really can't see a reason why Toyota would install those strips up there for no reason, they must be in place of what would be the factory rack.

The truck I bought came with a Yakima rack up front, but I would like the option to have stuff in the back ..... those racks up front make a lot of noise and I like running with the sunroof open.

bought? nice! lets have a look see!

montana nate · 04-09-2008, 09:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by d0ubledown

bought? nice! lets have a look see!

I pick it up tomorrow and pics will be taken for sure. One owner 98' SR5 with the factory locker and a pretty rare lighter blue color ..... can't wait!

How's the Cruiser? Not sure if you named him/her yet, I but I called him Junior as it was younger then my FJ60 name Thirsty

michalik_piotr · 04-09-2008, 10:07 PM

ah b ham. go rip it up at Rumors!

montana nate · 04-09-2008, 10:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by michalik_piotr

ah b ham. go rip it up at Rumors!

Rumors isn't really my thing ...... I'm more of a dinner and margaritas at Jalepenos and then down to Archers for darts and beer kinda guy

fastrax · 04-14-2008, 08:09 AM

Hello Everyone:

I have a 1997 4Runner, V6, SR5 that had the factory roof strips. I recently snagged an almost like new 97 factory roof rack and replaced those strips which had separated and cracked over the years. Best decision I made. I found the rack here in Los Angeles by searching Craigslist, posting a wanted ad and ebay. Craigslist came through, although I did have to travel 50 miles to get it.

When removing the bolts and re-installing, you will need to coat the threads with silicone sealant, like it was from the factory. I also put a thin layer over the head of the bolt to further seal it. Depending on how mechanically inclined you are, it should take you 1-2 hours.

andyf0722 · 04-14-2008, 09:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fo-runna

While we are on the topic, anybody have experience with a kayak or canoe on the factory roof rack?

I used to have a Thule rack that mounted up front over the sun roof. I carried kayaks using a kayak stacker attachment. That is until I drove into the garage with the stacker in the up position and broke it. Ooops! Since then I have just been strapping my kayak to the factory rack and it has worked fine. I also started using the factory rack to mount my bike instead of using the Thule rack. I like driving with the sunroof open and the Thule rack got in the way of the view and caused some buffeting. So I am sticking with just using the factory rack. It seems to be stronger than it may appear.

fastrax · 04-14-2008, 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andyf0722

I used to have a Thule rack that mounted up front over the sun roof. I carried kayaks using a kayak stacker attachment. That is until I drove into the garage with the stacker in the up position and broke it. Ooops! Since then I have just been strapping my kayak to the factory rack and it has worked fine. I also started using the factory rack to mount my bike instead of using the Thule rack. I like driving with the sunroof open and the Thule rack got in the way of the view and caused some buffeting. So I am sticking with just using the factory rack. It seems to be stronger than it may appear.

Actually you are correct. The factory roof rack IS stronger than you think.

Roadtripr · 04-14-2008, 10:53 AM

I use a combination for my tandem kayak since it is pretty heavy and long. For years though, I used the standard rack for around town, but I added a Yakima bar over the sunroof that I only mount when taking the kayak on a longer trip. I got Yakima rollers in the back on the stock rack and saddles up front on the yakim bar. The stock rack is fine but seems to flex more.

04-08-2008, 02:17 PM	#2 (permalink)
aviator Super Moderator Staff Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: COTKU,Ontario,Canada Posts: 7,472	I think that rib you are talking about is just the raingutter thingy but you probably could change it to the roof rack strip. Don't take my word for it though I have'nt looked at those runners very closely to say for sure either way. Somebody here will know better... __________________ Silver 1994 Hilux Xtra cab 4x4 3.0 K&N cone filter, ported MAF, advanced timing, oversize exhaust, free flow cat, "rumble" muffler custom covered SR5 seats, map lights, factory AC tv4184 style black interior conversion started mods to come... header, custom centre console, stereo upgrade tinted windows Founding member 1972TLC fan club - Get well soon Mary Toyota Hilux... Get in or Get out of the way.

04-08-2008, 10:08 PM	#3 (permalink)
mpavolka Registered User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Tacoma, WA Posts: 311	I am sure it would be possible to attach a factory rack. However you risk causing a leak and/or drilling through you ceiling apholstry. If it were me I would just get a Thule or Yakima rack that attaches to the gutters at the top of the door opening. Like this one on my brother's previous car __________________ 99' 4Runner SR5 5spd 3.4L Sonoran Steel 7.1/7.2/OME891 Previous Vehicles: 1985 4x4, 1990 4Runner Last edited by mpavolka; 04-08-2008 at 10:11 PM.

04-08-2008, 11:35 PM	#4 (permalink)
michalik_piotr Registered User Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Seattle Posts: 530	i just took my oem rack off and put on a yakima. the guy who bought my oem one had a 4runner that came w/o and i believe under that strip hidden are threaded inserts. pray that up and check. if there are no threaded inserts, i would NOT just screw it to the top with sheet metal screws. those things are already flimsy enough, its why i took it off. if you plan on having surfboards or a rocket box it will most likely flex and flop in the wind on the freway. i've seen em do that is why i took mine off. __________________ 1985 4runner sr5 - 5spd, 22re..........sold 2000 4runner Limited - rear locker, TJM, Alpine, Hella, Optilux, Yakima, LC rims w/ 255/85s, 1" RB BL, tint by Skyline, 1st gen roll bar (Hi Lift, MagLite, Fire ex), Optima YT, HID. 2000 Ducati M900, Ohlins, Acerbis, Vortex, Yoyodyne, Michelin, NGK, RR, CRG, RK, ARC Fab, Brembo, Odyssey, Afam, Luis Viton seat, custom paint. RIP Bella: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oC8apXrNRI Welcome Lucifer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hbip7xYtYA

04-09-2008, 07:03 AM	#8 (permalink)
michalik_piotr Registered User Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Seattle Posts: 530	right, right....i forgot, the torx screws. if you have those you're good. thats where the rack will bolt to! __________________ 1985 4runner sr5 - 5spd, 22re..........sold 2000 4runner Limited - rear locker, TJM, Alpine, Hella, Optilux, Yakima, LC rims w/ 255/85s, 1" RB BL, tint by Skyline, 1st gen roll bar (Hi Lift, MagLite, Fire ex), Optima YT, HID. 2000 Ducati M900, Ohlins, Acerbis, Vortex, Yoyodyne, Michelin, NGK, RR, CRG, RK, ARC Fab, Brembo, Odyssey, Afam, Luis Viton seat, custom paint. RIP Bella: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oC8apXrNRI Welcome Lucifer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hbip7xYtYA

04-09-2008, 09:44 AM	#10 (permalink)
Roadtripr Registered User Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: San Diego, CA Posts: 927	Remember to put some silicon or similar sealant on the screws when you put your new rack in. You want it to stand up to years of rain. __________________ Carsten -------------------------- 99 4runner SR5 4x4 5spd

04-09-2008, 05:11 AM	#5 (permalink)
TRT4Runner Registered User Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Bflo, NY Posts: 15	I'm a newb and have been researching the whole roof rack thing myself as I have a '99 SR5 w/o the factory rack. I do have the two strips and can tell you that there are 4? torx or star fasteners that hold the strips to the roof. My understanding is that you can buy the rails and just replace the strips. They should fasten to the roof the same way.

04-09-2008, 06:21 AM	#7 (permalink)
TRT4Runner Registered User Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Bflo, NY Posts: 15	I believe some came w/o anything on the roof (no black strips or actual roof rack) those are the one that would have to drill into the roof to attach a factory rack. Like I said, I'm new to the game, but I've been doing alot of browsing and searching on the subject and I'm 99% sure of this. Maybe a vet can chime in and be absolutely positive.

04-09-2008, 08:46 AM	#9 (permalink)
montana nate Registered User Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 43	Cool, now I need to find a used rack somewhere!

04-09-2008, 03:51 PM	#12 (permalink)
PReD777 Registered User Join Date: Apr 2008 Posts: 7	what are you looking to put on the rack? this has some outcome to what rigging will work... __________________ 08 Tacoma - stock for now :( retired 97 4Runner 4x4 SR5 Manual V6 \| K&N Drop-in filter \| Deckplate Mod \| BFG AT's \| 3" Flowmaster \| Custom Downey LightBar w/ Skidplate \| Yakima Snow Rack 99 Tacoma Manual I4 \| 3.5" Fabtech front and back \| Injen Cold Air Intake \| 2.5" Flowmaster \| Leer Camper Shell

04-09-2008, 10:07 PM	#16 (permalink)
michalik_piotr Registered User Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Seattle Posts: 530	ah b ham. go rip it up at Rumors! __________________ 1985 4runner sr5 - 5spd, 22re..........sold 2000 4runner Limited - rear locker, TJM, Alpine, Hella, Optilux, Yakima, LC rims w/ 255/85s, 1" RB BL, tint by Skyline, 1st gen roll bar (Hi Lift, MagLite, Fire ex), Optima YT, HID. 2000 Ducati M900, Ohlins, Acerbis, Vortex, Yoyodyne, Michelin, NGK, RR, CRG, RK, ARC Fab, Brembo, Odyssey, Afam, Luis Viton seat, custom paint. RIP Bella: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oC8apXrNRI Welcome Lucifer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hbip7xYtYA

04-14-2008, 08:09 AM	#18 (permalink)
fastrax Registered User Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 2	RE: Factory Roof Rack Hello Everyone: I have a 1997 4Runner, V6, SR5 that had the factory roof strips. I recently snagged an almost like new 97 factory roof rack and replaced those strips which had separated and cracked over the years. Best decision I made. I found the rack here in Los Angeles by searching Craigslist, posting a wanted ad and ebay. Craigslist came through, although I did have to travel 50 miles to get it. When removing the bolts and re-installing, you will need to coat the threads with silicone sealant, like it was from the factory. I also put a thin layer over the head of the bolt to further seal it. Depending on how mechanically inclined you are, it should take you 1-2 hours.

04-14-2008, 10:53 AM	#21 (permalink)
Roadtripr Registered User Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: San Diego, CA Posts: 927	I use a combination for my tandem kayak since it is pretty heavy and long. For years though, I used the standard rack for around town, but I added a Yakima bar over the sunroof that I only mount when taking the kayak on a longer trip. I got Yakima rollers in the back on the stock rack and saddles up front on the yakim bar. The stock rack is fine but seems to flex more. __________________ Carsten -------------------------- 99 4runner SR5 4x4 5spd

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