Rain gutter clamps vs. chrome trim

[88red]

I’m looking for recommendations for roof rack clamps that don’t crush the chrome rain gutter trim. I have seen more roof racks that damage the trim than don’t and some even end up denting the roof shell as well.

 

[OSS]

If the clamps are made strong and fit close and tight as they need to be, the gutter chrome trim will sometimes get a little dented. So what. A lot of guys despise the chrome gutter trim and remove it. And although it's a bit 80's blingy, it does serve a very good purpose of protecting the paint on the sharp metal edge of the gutter from wearing off - and the steel underneath from rusting. So I always left my trim on. And when a piece gets ripped off or damaged (from a roof rack clamp) I just replace it.

 

[88red]

Yea, I knew I’d hear the just rip it off comment for sure. I’ve just seen some clamps that make the chrome trim look like something coming out of a sausage maker.

 

[Golgo13]

This seems like a perfectly valid request. No reason you can have a gutter clamp AND and have it fit properly with the gutter trim.
JDM LC80 has a gutter-mount roof rack with ridiculously designed clamps that achieve this. They also spread the load more so it doesn't dent the gutter.

 

[Two Buck]

...And although it's a bit 80's blingy, it does serve a very good purpose of protecting the paint on the sharp metal edge of the gutter from wearing off - and the steel underneath from rusting. So I always left my trim on.

Huh, I had heard that the chrome trim traps water and makes it more likely that the gutters will rust, so I pulled mine off. I like it better without it, but that's just my taste.

 

[88red]

Arb seems like a good clamp. nice long rail for the foot and the clamping action is straight up instead of a squeeze inward.

 

[86aggie]

I haven't used my roof bars in years, but its a Thule set up. I never had any problem with the clamps damaging the chrome. I've used it for skis, bikes, and lumber.