Mounting Yakima Round Cross Bars On 4runner

So, you've got yourself a 4Runner and a set of Yakima Round Cross Bars. Excellent choice! Whether you're planning epic camping trips, hauling kayaks, or just need some extra cargo space, adding a roof rack system is a game-changer. This guide will walk you through the process of mounting Yakima Round Cross Bars on your 4Runner, ensuring a secure and reliable setup. We'll cover everything from gathering the necessary equipment to the final check, making this a straightforward process even for beginners.

Understanding Your Yakima Round Bar System and 4Runner Roof

Before diving in, let's familiarize ourselves with the components. Your Yakima Round Bar system typically consists of the following:

• Yakima Round Cross Bars: These are the core of your roof rack, providing the horizontal support for your gear.
• Towers (or Feet): These attach the cross bars to your 4Runner's roof. The specific type of tower you need will depend on your 4Runner's factory roof rack (if any) and the year of your vehicle. Common options include:
  • Yakima Control Towers: Often used with landing pads, which attach to specific points on your vehicle's roof.
  • Yakima RailGrab Towers: Designed to clamp onto existing factory raised side rails.
  • Yakima TimberLine Towers: Another option for vehicles with factory raised side rails, often featuring a more streamlined design.
  • Yakima SkyLine Towers: Integrate with Yakima's Landing Pads.
• Landing Pads (if applicable): These are vehicle-specific adapters that provide a secure mounting point for the towers. Not always necessary, depending on the tower type and your 4Runner's roof setup.
• Locks (optional but recommended): These secure your towers to the landing pads or rails, deterring theft.
• Endcaps: These protect the ends of the Round Bars and provide a finished look.

Now, let's consider your 4Runner. Does it have factory-installed raised side rails? Does it have fixed mounting points under a plastic trim piece? The answer to these questions will determine the type of towers and landing pads (if needed) you'll use. Consult Yakima's fit guide (available on their website) to determine the correct parts for your specific 4Runner year and model. Using the wrong parts can lead to damage or an unsafe installation.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Having the right tools on hand will make the installation process smoother and more efficient. Here's a list of essentials:

• Your Yakima Round Bar System: This includes the cross bars, towers (or feet), landing pads (if applicable), locks (optional), and endcaps.
• Measuring Tape: Crucial for accurate bar placement.
• Wrench or Socket Set: The size will depend on the hardware used by your towers and landing pads. A torque wrench is highly recommended.
• Screwdriver (usually Phillips head): May be needed for securing landing pads or adjusting tower settings.
• Soft Cloth or Towel: To protect your 4Runner's roof from scratches.
• Ladder or Step Stool (optional): May be helpful for reaching the roof comfortably, especially on lifted 4Runners.
• Marker or Grease Pencil: For marking measurements on your roof.
• Yakima's Fit Guide or Installation Instructions: Absolutely essential! This provides vehicle-specific instructions and torque specifications. Don't skip this step!

Step-by-Step Installation Guide: Mounting Yakima Round Cross Bars on a 4Runner

Important: Always refer to the Yakima's Fit Guide and the specific instructions included with your towers and landing pads. These instructions supersede this general guide. This guide is intended to give you an overview of the process, but the details can vary based on your specific equipment.

1. Preparation: Start by cleaning your 4Runner's roof where the towers or landing pads will be mounted. Remove any dirt, debris, or wax. This will ensure a clean and secure connection. Place the soft cloth or towel on the roof to protect the paint while you work.
2. Install Landing Pads (If Applicable): If your system uses landing pads, attach them to the designated mounting points on your 4Runner's roof. This usually involves removing a small plastic trim piece and bolting the landing pad into place. Torque the bolts to the specification listed in the Yakima instructions. Do not overtighten! Overtightening can damage the mounting points or the landing pads.
3. Attach Towers to Landing Pads (or Directly to Rails): Once the landing pads are installed (or if you're using towers that clamp directly to the factory rails), attach the towers to the landing pads according to the Yakima instructions. Again, torque the bolts to the specified value.
4. Position the Cross Bars: Now, it's time to attach the Yakima Round Cross Bars to the towers. Loosen the clamps or fasteners on the towers and slide the cross bars into place. Refer to the Yakima instructions for the recommended bar spread (the distance between the centers of the two cross bars). This distance is crucial for optimal weight distribution and stability. Use your measuring tape to ensure accurate placement.
5. Center and Square the Cross Bars: Ensure that the cross bars are centered on your 4Runner and perpendicular to the vehicle's centerline. Use your measuring tape to measure the distance from the end of each cross bar to a fixed point on the vehicle (e.g., the edge of the windshield). Adjust the bars until the measurements are equal on both sides. This ensures that the rack is square and that loads are distributed evenly.
6. Tighten All Fasteners: Once the cross bars are in the correct position, tighten all the clamps and fasteners on the towers according to the Yakima instructions. Use a torque wrench to ensure that you're tightening to the correct specification. This is crucial for safety and to prevent the rack from shifting or coming loose during travel.
7. Install Endcaps: Install the endcaps on the ends of the Round Bars. This provides a finished look and protects the ends of the bars from damage.
8. Install Locks (Optional): If you purchased locks, install them now to secure the towers to the landing pads or rails.
9. Final Check: Before hitting the road, double-check all the fasteners to ensure they are tight. Give the rack a good shake to make sure it's secure. Also, check the clearance between the rack and the roof of your 4Runner to ensure that there's no contact.

Important Considerations and Tips

• Weight Capacity: Be aware of the weight capacity of your Yakima Round Bar system and your 4Runner's roof. Do not exceed the weight limits, as this can damage your vehicle or create a safety hazard. The weight capacity is usually listed in the Yakima instructions and in your 4Runner's owner's manual.
• Load Distribution: Distribute the weight of your cargo evenly across the cross bars. Concentrated loads can put undue stress on the rack and the roof.
• Aerodynamics: Consider adding a fairing to your Yakima Round Bars to reduce wind noise and improve fuel economy. Round bars are known for being noisier than aerodynamic bars.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically check the fasteners on your Yakima Round Bar system to ensure they are tight. Also, inspect the rack for any signs of damage or wear.
• Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable installing the Yakima Round Bar system yourself, consider having it installed by a professional. A professional installer will have the experience and tools to ensure a safe and reliable installation.
• Read the Instructions!: We cannot stress this enough. Yakima provides detailed, vehicle-specific instructions for a reason. Follow them closely.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Wind Noise: Round cross bars can generate wind noise. Consider a Yakima fairing to deflect wind. Experiment with cross bar placement, sometimes moving them slightly can reduce noise.
• Loose Fit: Double-check that you have the correct towers and landing pads for your 4Runner year and model. Ensure all fasteners are torqued to the specified values.
• Difficulty Tightening: If you're having trouble tightening the fasteners, make sure you're using the correct tools and that the threads are clean. Avoid forcing anything. If necessary, consult a professional.

Mounting Yakima Round Cross Bars on your 4Runner can significantly enhance its versatility. By following these steps and paying attention to the details, you can ensure a safe and reliable installation that will allow you to haul your gear with confidence. Remember to always consult the Yakima Fit Guide and specific instructions for your equipment. Safe travels!