2002 Roof Rack Removal

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JPath2002
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Joined: Thu Apr 25, 2013 12:49 pm
Location: Toronto, Ontario

2002 Roof Rack Removal

Postby JPath2002 » Wed Jul 17, 2013 8:04 pm

This guy who works in the building of where I work told me that if I don't use the roof rack I should remove it as it will give me better mileage...is this true? If so, how do I remove the factory roof rack? I haven't checked the manual yet... :D but if anyone could let me know that would be appreciated.

He also noticed that my roof racks were not straight and asked me if I noticed the car dragging to one side ...which I haven't really paid attention to...but in any case if removing the roof rack does better mileage or helps in fuel savings I would want to remove it as right now i'm soon to hit the 250K :)


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smj999smj
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Postby smj999smj » Wed Jul 17, 2013 10:47 pm

You can remove the crossbars if you want. If you remove the rails, you'll have holes in your roof that'll leak unless you seal them up, so I wouldn't remove them. As far as the gas mileage, I think any gain will be minimal if even noticeable. As far as them not being straight and causing your vehicle to drag on one side, I think your "guy who works in the building" is talking out his butt! If it's the crossbars he's referring to, they can be adjusted.

JPath2002
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Joined: Thu Apr 25, 2013 12:49 pm
Location: Toronto, Ontario

RE: smj999smj

Postby JPath2002 » Thu Jul 18, 2013 3:36 pm

Thanks smj999smj - I think I will stick with NOT removing the roof racks...don't want those holes and then filling it up is just not worth it. :D

Hooligan
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Postby Hooligan » Fri Jul 19, 2013 11:08 am

If it's like my 98 then the rails can be removed. Each rail is attached to 3 brackets on a sub-rail which is part of the roof. The brackets are riveted in a channel and are not removed. Hence, no holes. I agree that the aerodynamic drag would be minimal.

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smj999smj
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Postby smj999smj » Sat Jul 20, 2013 1:07 pm

You could always leave the rails and just remove the crossbars. That'll eliminate a good portion of the wind resistance of the roof rack and a little weight.


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