Installing oem roof rack the right way?

trying to find pdf instructions.

 

@CoronaTaco

 

I noticed the PDF that’s posted is for a 2012 Tacoma. Is it still applicable for later models? I have a 2021 Tacoma. Just received the OEM rack I ordered. It arrived with no bag of washers/screws and no instructions.

 

Sounds like you might have accidentally ordered a knock off since it arrived missing hardware. Or possibly it was a return that came back with missing parts that they then passed on to you. Did you order direct from a dealer? I’d contact whoever you ordered from and inquire about the hardware.

Either way skip the OEM foam washers. Get some rubber washers, RTV sealant, blue locktite and you’ll be good to go!

Hope ya get it sorted

 

Thanks. It is an OEM rack from a dealer. I just called and the parts guy is going to see how to get me hardware.

 

I've installed an OEM rack on both a 2012 and my current 2018 just following the directions and neither leaked. Some of the torque specs are kind of low, so I can see how some people may have squashed the foam washers more than they should have if not torquing things properly. Install was exactly the same on both the 2nd and 3rd gen.

 

I have installed about 6 OEM racks on friends trucks and mine as well, never an issue with the OEM kits. I used automotive clear silicone sealant. Never one issue but one time we installed a knock off rack and we had to bend the brackets. It was a nice kit, fit okay but there is a slight difference in quality in a way the non oem racks felt cheap, not as well made. But they did the job, installed ok and looked the part for a $100 savings. Go OEM is always best and use a nice amount of silicone.

 

Update: I finally installed the OEM rack. This forum is invaluable for the tips and write ups. I am pretty happy with the finished product. A little worried about the leading edge at the windshield, because of the slight gap (I found it impossible to push it more forward because the installed bracket has zero adjustability). It snugged down well enough that there are no gaps on the passenger side. The heads of the 2 smaller bolts attaching the rack to the bracket started to strip out on the driver side, so it’s not quite as snug. Thinking of buying some more wafer heads and trying again.

Drove it a bit at highway speeds last night, and didn’t really notice wind noise.

Rain returns to the PNW today or tomorrow, so I’ll be checking for leaks. I wasn’t shy with the RTV, so it should be fine.

Thanks again for the suggestions.

 

Just picked up my OEM rack today @ManualTaco, any leaks from your install?

 

@willworkforboost I installed mine six years ago using black RTV. No leaks as of today! As others have said, use sealant and you'll be fine.

 

Picked up a used OEM rack and installed today. I used these threads for the PRO tips.for the install. Went pretty smooth, less than 1 hr but 2 of the small screws gave me a hard time, think previous owner/installer cross threaded them but I got it eventually.

People either love em or hate it. For my needs this is a good solution, don't need or want a full overland rack.
I like that it changed the looks a bit too. Easily reversible if need.

 

Looks good, I like mine for the looks and the simplicity of it.