Any reason I NEED the rain rubber gutter molding installed? (After Bajarack install.)

Installed a Baja rack over the weekend. I couldn't seem to get the bracket bolts to line up with the rain gutter sandwiched in between, so I got everything lined up without them. (Completely my own coordination issue.)

Now I no longer have the gutters installed. Is there any problem in leaving them off? I have sealing washers and spacers at the bolts. I think this makes it water-resistant, but I'm going to RTV the threads as well to make it water-proof.

When I get it all off again, I'm going to try again to incorporate the molding when re-assembling, but wondering if there's any downside (other than aesthetics) in not using them.

Does the rain gutter molding do anything for water-proofing where it meets the windshield or rear window? It just sits there so I don't think so, but wanted to check.

And pictures!

 

if your talking about the ones on the roof then there is no need for them in my opinion. i have a 05 access cab and my driver side flew off back in 06 so i took off the passenger side to match (cause was to expensive to replace) and i've been running that way ever since. i have had no leaking issues or anything else. hope this helps you out.

 

It does. Thanks!

 

I put mine back on its place. Even with the sealant and everything, it's good to have a peace of mind knowing that there will be no big volume of water running thru it because of that rubber.

 

Where did you get your roof rack from on your tacoma -HoffmanDesigned