3rd gen roof rack options

I did the same research earlier this year and decided the OEM rack was the way to go for my needs. I wanted something to haul my 14' racing paddle board but didn't want to deal with reduced MPG or wind noise. The factory rack only cost about $250, the cross bars swivel out of the way when not in use, there is absolutely no wind noise when not in use and I haven't noticed any reduction in MPG. Plus it keeps the stock look. They seem very rigid and suitable for my needs. Only took about 45 minutes to install.

 

Those prinsu racks are hideous to me and their function is very limited to the user. To me it makes the truck look like a military vehicle. I guess that cool if you like that look. A lot of people do like them though. Im more of a function and form person so. If I was get a rack of that nature it would definitely be the Front Runner Slimline. Little more expensive but looks a lot better plus there are so much more accessories available for it

 

I installed the OEM rack myself. Very easy install. Will hold a 100lbs of stuff and only way to go if you have a sun-roof IMO.

 

Has anyone attempted to use the Yakima Q-towers on their 3rd gen Tacoma? I want to utilize my old Yakima Q towers, just need to know what size Q-clips I would need.

 

I went with the Front runner slim line racks they are amazing!

 

I'll be going with this!

 

Did you ever find out what size clips to use? I have an old rack too and Yakima will only say they didn't spec the Q clips to the 3rd gen trucks and want me to buy new bases.

 

I haven't, I gave up searching cause I couldn't figure it out

 

Thanks. If I come across anything I'll let you know. The new base from Yakima is quite pricey.

 

This is my old truck but my new truck has the same set, I just don't have pictures. It is a Thule rack and the larger kayak is I believe 13ft.

 

Maybe this will help. The cab roof is the same 2nd gen to 3rd gen despite what Yakima says. When I bought my rack, Yakima had different measurements 2nd and 3rd gen. I found the 3rd gen measurements didn’t work, and had to set it up as 2nd gen anyway. I was an early 3rd gen buyer so they may have amended that by now anyway. But no reason that I can think of that the 2nd gen compatible Q clips wouldn’t work.

https://www.etrailer.com/question-100685.html

 

Well that sucks......I bought the new towers and clips as opposed to just buying new Q clips......several hundred $$$ more. Old set up was on my '07 Tundra. New set up was a royal pain to install also. Still not sure it is correct - instructions SUCKED!!! no narrative, just pictures and measurements (which didn't work for me anyway). Haven't had any weight on it yet, almost afraid to, due to the instructions and not knowing if it is on correct or not.