How To Install Cool Roof Rack For 2G & 3G Tacoma
Tacoma offers ample storage space for all your needs, as you have space on the truck bed and beneath the rear seat. You can pack a lot in these places but must organize everything. However, the spaces may not be large enough or suitable for large cargo items. You need extra space, preferably a roof rack with enough capacity to carry everything.
To secure your cargo, the rack allows you to anchor, tighten everything, and drive without worrying about anything falling. This makes it suitable for carrying any luggage, including those ideal for the truck bed or beneath the seats. However, before you enjoy all the benefits, you must understand how to install the rack to ensure it is stable enough to carry all the load. Instead of spending cash on someone to help you install, here's a simple review and method for installing the rack you plan to use.
Deciding on the perfect roof rack
Tacoma is one of the most flexible and versatile trucks, so it is suitable for carrying all types of cargo. The type of Tacoma rack you buy will determine your ability to carry the cargo you need. You can select the racks based on size and material composition.
For heavy-duty needs, camping, and construction, buy thick racks made from heavy-duty metals. These racks can withstand weight and environmental conditions, and you can use them to carry more luggage, including toolboxes, for your gigs. If you need the perfect rack for household needs, you can buy sizable and maybe smaller racks ideal for boosting the vehicles’ visual appeal and carrying smaller luggage. You can also opt for the standard version or those with additional accessories to make the car look appealing. Besides that, you can buy the standard sizer color or the black racks.
Installing The Rack
Regardless of the size, follow these procedures to install the Tacoma roof rack.
1. Assembling the Accessories
Your first role is to unpack everything to ensure everything is available before you install them. Inspect all the accessories to ensure you have all the crucial components. Then, you can begin matching and putting all the items together. When unpacking the items, do not mix them up with each other. Sometimes, laying them differently enables you to use the right accessory for specific points. For instance, the screws vary; hence you should use the right one.
2. Attaching the Bar
The following process is to assemble most of the racks on the ground. Tacoma racks have six bars, but depending on the design and size, you can opt for one with more bars. The standard has two sidebars, four crossbars, and two additional silver bars. Note that the bars do not have to be the same length, depending on the rack size. The sidebars are longer since they extend the length of the rack, while the crossbars are shorter based on the rack’s width.
Typically, the sidebars are marked 1x1 and are lengthier and larger, while the cross bars are marked 1x2. This can help you distinguish the difference. Otherwise, the assembly manual will help you distinguish each. Lay the sidebars and the cross base between them to ensure all the bars are available. Next, position the silver bars at the head and bottom of the arrangement. Ensure every crossbar is next to an attachment point. After that, you can attach the cross bars to the side rails attachment points using the bolts. Attach the screws and bolts lightly in case you need to make any further modifications.
3. Prepare the Roof
The Tacoma has roof rail water stripping to protect the rail attachment points. Once you remove the trim, you can see all the attachment points for attaching the rack to the roof. Clean the rack attachments to ensure there is no debris or any object. Once you remove the weather stripping, you can see the attachment point well marked. Use a screwdriver to poke holes in the marking to reveal the mounting holes.
4. Attaching the Brackets
Before you screw bolts into the attachment holes, ensure you dip the bolts into a sealant. The sealant ensures the bolt perfectly fits into attachment holes and completely seals it. This leaves no room for water or air to enter, hindering rust. The sealant also ensures the bolt fits tight and perfectly. You can also add a silicone adhesive sealant to the attachment holes before screwing in the bolts. After that, you can bolt the attachment brackets to the hole and ensure they are firm and secure.
5. Installing the bracket
Next, you can tightly screw the rack components and bracket on the ground, ensuring all the bars are firm and perfectly screwed or bolted to the side rails. Lift the rack and attach it to the brackets. Position the rack perfectly to ensure it aligns with the attachment brackets. This process will require an extra hand to help you lock everything in place.
Afterward, you put the washer, lock washer, and nuts into the bolt position and tighten everything. Ensure the rack stays in position while you tighten everything. Be careful not to scratch the rack, roof, or side painting. You can also proceed to tighten the silver bars and all other crossbars. Finally, add a sealant around the bolts, screws, and other attachment points.
Conclusion
Before installing the rack, ensure you have all the accessories, including the tiny components. Each component ensures the rack is firm, preventing cargo or driving accidents. Test the rack before you load more cargo, and use the truck for other needs.