Luggage Rack Bar removal Death Struggle!

[davecoon13]

I had a devil of time removing the luggage rack cross-bars from my roof. After more than 5 years in the elements (I don't have a garage) those bolts were rusted pretty good. I sprayed penetrating oil and was able to get the back bar off, but in the process I broke the T-30 ratchet driver handle (Yes, I will claim the Craftsman lifetime warranty). The original T-30 screwdriver that came with the car didn't have enough leverage. On the front bar, I just couldn't get it loose until I got out the electric drill (my battery drill doesn't have as much torque) with the T-30 Torx bit. One side broke loose no problem (after 3 applications of the penetrat spray). On the other side the drill broke the bolt loose, but it caused the penetrant to start smoking and the bolt just kept spinning but wouldn't unscrew at first.

Finally, after half a spray bottle of pentrating oil, a broken craftsman ratchet bit driver, and a 45 minute death struggle, I got the bars off!!! Good Riddance!

I had actually 4 bars because I bought 2 from somoenone on this site. The 2 I added last year came off no problem. I guess 5 years of weathering is what did me in. Anyhow, I now have no bars on my luggage rack. With my ARE Cap, the roof rack cross bars looked kinda silly.

I think I am gonna keep 2 of the bars but will sell the other 2 for only the cost of shipping ($15 UPS?) if anyone is interested.

[jeromes]

I am interested in the bars for $15.00. How would you like payment? I can do Paypal.

Follow up with PM or e-mail jschreiber@aegispower.com

Thanks for offering.

Jerome

[davecoon13]

Let me first package them up and get a shipping quote, $15 was a rough guess, I have no idea what it will cost. What is your zip code?

[jeromes]

my home zip is 28902, or my business zip is 28906. Just let me know. Jerome

[davecoon13]

Just be advised, the bars are not in the best shape, they have been in the elements for 5 years and are scratched. I will try to locate a box today.

[jeromes]

They are the OEM Aero style bars?

[davecoon13]

Actually, I have 2 sets, I can send you the set in better shape, it is in very good shape. They are the OEM style bars that came with the vehicle when new. I am not sure what you mean by "Aero" style. The bars are flat with a triangular/trapezoid shape on each end where it mounts to the railing, just the same as what came on the Baja when new. I'm currently trying to see if I can locate an appropriate size box for shipment. I will keep you updated.

[jeromes]

Thanks for the update. I just want to make sure they were OEM bars.

[davecoon13]

Yes, they are. I will go scavange for a box in a little while

[davecoon13]

Sold!

[YBajaSteve]

when I put on my roof basket, I had to adjust the crossbars, and WOW I agree, they are a death struggle. The fading is also sooo apparent when you move the bars, I at first thought i wasnt doing something right cuz i could get them to budge, they were really stuck. but after a bit, i got them to move and just realized they were really really weathered on. glad to see im not the only one