DIY roof rack(mounting feet)

[Wettergreen]

Hi,

I want to make my own roof rack for a J120.

Biggest issue seems to be the "feet" holding the rack.

Does anybody know the exact distance between the 2 "bolt holes" - where the feet attach to the roof of the car?

Thanks in advance,

 

[captainva]

I cant help you but a friend of mine followed this guide. Distances are similar from what I remember and this general design worked for him

 

[Wettergreen]

Have looked at this and doing somewhat similar: he doesn't specify distance between bolts so it's somewhat difficult to know how wide the "feet" need to be.

 

[captainva]

You can just use some 1" aluminum round bar stock and cut to length and drill out bolt hole

 

[Wettergreen]

You can just use some 1" aluminum round bar stock and cut to length and drill out bolt hole

How would you prevent water/moisture from entering the bolt hole on the car? Any tips?

 

[captainva]

Silicone or some other sealant, same as whats recommended by Prinsu for their racks. Also not 100% sure what the diameter of of those spacers are but whatever is in the video I linked will work from memory

 

[Rednexus]

You can measure the distance accurately using a digital caliper, which costs around $40. You can also buy round rubber gaskets at most hardware stores that should seal the bolt holes fairly well.

 

[Wettergreen]

You can just use some 1" aluminum round bar stock and cut to length and drill out bolt hole

Are threaded spacers any different than unthreaded - when it comes to durability/strength?

 

[captainva]

If it was me I’d want to clamp the spacer and the rack to the roof with the bolt so unthreaded would be better. I suppose that could work but wouldn’t be my first choice