Adding/removing roof rails

Draper · May 9, 2024

The 1958 doesn't come with roof rails, but the other 2 trims do.

Is there a difference between the roofs on the 3 models? Can the roof rails (or roof rack on the FE) be removed without irreversible modifications?

I don't have a use for roof rails/racks, and it definitely looks cleaner without them.

Doomed · May 9, 2024

My guess is the channels for the roof rails are made the same for all three models. The only difference will be the 1958 has one continuous strip that fills the channels (usually black plastic like trim). On the other two models would have maybe four separate strips with room for the rail legs that connect into the channels.

Guessing as I went rail-less on my 2002 WRX wagon and I just needed to buy the one piece channel trim that went on the standard Impreza wagons that had no roof rails.

IceCap1958 · May 9, 2024

Hopefully you will be able to hook up with new LC owners that will want to swap your roof rails for their rail-less set-up. I have a rail-less 1958 reserved and I may want to with for rails eventually.

Draper · May 9, 2024

This is the closest shot of the roof rails I've been able to find. Definitely looks like a black rubber strip in a channel.

It looks like the 1958 trim also has the black strips.

Hopefully this means the rails can be easily removed (or added) as desired.

Doomed · May 9, 2024

I think you are correct but just a FYI you will need to pull down the headliner to get at the hardware to remove the rails. Just a guess but an educated one as that job was not fun on my WRX. lol

Draper · May 9, 2024

On the current Sequoia it looks like it can all be done externally. Maybe the LC is similar?

mkg · May 9, 2024

4Runner is done from the outside as well.. that is unless the inner nut weld breaks.

Draper · May 9, 2024

I guess the big remaining question is whether or not the 1958 trims have the rail mounts hidden under the rubber strips.

IceCap1958 · May 9, 2024

Draper said:
I guess the big remaining question is whether or not the 1958 trims have the rail mounts hidden under the rubber strips.

My guess is yes, since lots of 1958s are getting rails/racks as dealer-installed options. But, again, that's a guess.

Draper · May 9, 2024

That's an excellent point! I hope you are right.

Doomed · May 9, 2024

Absolutely, saves money when they can all be the same.

IceCap1958 said:
My guess is yes, since lots of 1958s are getting rails/racks as dealer-installed options. But, again, that's a guess.

Captain Trips · May 9, 2024

For 4runners there is a delete kit for the roof rails if you want to remove them. I would not be surprised if the 1958 has the kit already installed as they all arrive in Port with no roof rails or racks. Also, at least on the 4runners, they make it so you don’t have to remove the headliner to remove the roof rails or install the roof rails.

EOD Guy · May 13, 2024

I'll have to wait and see, but I don't think I like the FE basket as well as the FC rails. I really don't see where I'll ever strap anything to the top.

Gasherbrum · May 22, 2024

I have a 1958 on order and would be interested in buying a set of the OEM LC or FE roof rails from anyone not needing / wanting them.

acts238 · Jun 10, 2024

I took my Rack off today. Unsure how to plug the holes up. Ordered the 6 replacement strips. They come in sections.

acts238 · Jun 10, 2024

EOD Guy · Jun 10, 2024

Thinking I'm probably going the same route. Would you mind sharing the price?

acts238 · Jun 10, 2024

The price for the strips are $25 a piece. And you'll need 6. I'm kinda learning this as I go. Not much info out there and dealer isn't much help. Just trying to figure out what is the correct procedure for plugging up the holes