Re-installing OEM roof rack

I have a 2018 TRDPro with a standard silver roof rail system.

I have decided to remove the rack to paint it. ( I guess the other option is to paint the rack on the car and use lots of paper to prevent over spray.)

Lots of great videos on removal.
None on the reinstall.

Obviously, it is simple just reverse the order.

My question is more about how to prevent leaks.

Do you replace the foam washers.
Just use the old ones?
Add silicon?
Or am I worrying about a non issue?

Anybody have some advice?

Thanks

Kurt

 

You can reuse all of the hardware and I wouldn't worry about leaking. The one thing you need to make sure you do I not tighten any one bolt fully while putting the rack back on. There is plastic piece inside the track that will break if you tighten one bolt too tight. Just put each bolt in and make your way around until all are completely tight. Hope this helps!

 

I added a small line of black RTV on the roof surface around the plastic sleeves. It's probably not necessary but just an extra precaution. I removed it again once I got the Sherpa rack but it worked well for the 6+months it was on there.

 

I have not taken mine off yet.

I will put butyl sealing tape on around the white tubes.

Is the OEM seal you are talking about part (63437A) that goes between the rubber insulator and plastic mounting bracket of the roof rack?