Yakima 1A Raingutter Towers
Product Overview
The Yakima 1A Raingutter Towers are designed to securely attach crossbars to a vehicle's raingutter system, providing a foundation for carrying various cargo.
Important Warning: Proper and secure attachment of Yakima racks and accessories to your vehicle is critical. Improper attachment can lead to accidents, serious bodily injury, or death. Users are responsible for securing the racks, checking attachments before use, and periodically inspecting them for adjustment, wear, and damage. Read and understand all instructions and cautions before installation or use. If you lack mechanical experience or familiarity with installation procedures, have the product installed by a professional installer.
Maximum Load Limit: Do not exceed 165 lbs (75 kg) rack weight limit.
Installation Steps
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Begin by Installing the Boots
On some vehicles, boots must cover the tower feet for extra friction. If the boot fits, wear it.
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Attach Towers to Crossbars
Use the supplied wrench. Loosen the shear-block bolts, slide the crossbar through, and keep loose. Bolts must be loose enough for the bar to move.
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Install End Caps
Push end caps onto the ends of the crossbars. Secure the end cap by pushing its ends firmly against a flat surface.
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Place on Car; A Friend Can Help
With car doors open, gently set the bar assembly on the roof. Keep bolts loose.
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Position Tower Feet
Tower feet must rest inside the raingutter. Clips fit outside the raingutter.
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Measure Equal Distance to Windshield
Ensure the crossbars are equidistant from the windshield.
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Pull Towers Outward
Keep towers vertical. Pull towers outward to prevent contact with the roof.
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Tighten Bolts
Tighten bolts using the supplied wrench. Ensure the gold pillar screw is fully engaged for complete turning.
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Attach Handwheels
Screw the handwheels straight into the threaded holes in the towers. Tighten firmly, but do not over tighten. Handwheels must be horizontal during installation.
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While Tightening Handwheels, Do Not Let Towers Lean into Roof
If towers lean into the roof: loosen handwheels and bolts, pull towers outward, then tighten bolts and handwheels. If towers still contact the roof: with car doors open, loosen handwheels, remove the bar assembly, install clip spacers, and then re-set the bar assembly gently on the roof with bolts still loose.
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Rear Installation and Crossbar Spread
If your vehicle has rear doors, open them and repeat steps 1 through 9 for the rear crossbar. The distance between crossbars (crossbar spread) is determined by the accessories you intend to carry. Consult the Crossbar Spread Table (Fit List) for required spread.
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Lockability (Optional)
If you have purchased SKS® Lock Cores, install them now following the directions provided with the lock cores.
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Check Your Rack!
Grab each crossbar end and pull side to side. If anything moves, loosen handwheels and bolts, and readjust. Ensure all hardware is secure before driving away.
Warning: Do not re-install the rack system on any vehicle other than the one for which it is intended. The car door should close without interference. If contact occurs, loosen bolts and adjust towers, keeping them vertical.
Maintenance and Care
- Use non-water-soluble lubricant on bolts.
- Use a soft cloth with water and mild detergent to clean plastic parts.
- Always tie down long loads at front and rear.
- Not Recommended for Use with Drive-Through Car Washes.
Warning: Attachment hardware can loosen over time. Check before each use and tighten if necessary. Failure to perform safety checks can result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Warranty Information
This product is covered by Yakima's “Love It Till You Leave It” Limited Lifetime Warranty.
KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
