Prinsu Roof Rack Questions

Just purchased a full length Prinsu rack for my T4R and I've scoured the forum and the internet in general looking for information on this rack in particular or any other aftermarket roof racks. Lots of information on pros/cons/how they look after, but not much information on the install side of things.

I was hoping to hear about some of your experiences in installing your aftermarket roof racks, and mainly "what you wish you knew then" looking back on it. Also looking for any feedback on waterproofing, types of silicone, alternatives to silicone, etc.

Any information would be much appreciated, as I'd like to be as prepared as possible when the new rack comes in this week!

 

I installed the Prinsu full rack on my 4runner using butyl tape and PTFE on the bolts and no silicone. Also I added washers (3/8 I think) under the spacers provided by Prinsu. I don't have lots of pics but u get the idea. It's been 2.5 years and my car had been through some serious weather plus it's been always pressure washed and so far no leaks anywhere.

 

Installed mine with a low profile light bar last year and have been very happy with it. Went with an aluminum rack like the Prinsu because our salty Michigan roads destroy steel. Also very happy with the versatility and the lack of wind noise.

I wish I had been a bit more careful when prying off the factory roof rack’s plastic boots as I now have two small dents on the roofline that scream at me every time I look at them. I followed the instructions using silicone caulk and I’ve had zero leaks.

 

I read a few horror stories with those plastic boot removals, I plan to be super careful. Thank you! I think I’ll be going the silicone route as well

(thanks for all of the feedback everyone!)

 

I used J-B Weld 31319 RTV Silicone Sealant and Adhesive found at Amazon. There are several YouTube videos that show the install process. I must have watched them all 5 times each waiting for the Chocolate Santa to deliver my rack. Use a plastic panel tool and laid down a folded micro fiber towel when removing the plastic end covers. I also layed down a strip of Clear Paint Protection Vinyl Film 4" x 48" where the strip from the noise reduction trim hits the paint on the front wind deflector. I'm very happy with the Prinsu rack.

 

I was looking at some RTV as well, just trying to find the right clear one. And yes I watched a few install videos, but all were replacing previous aftermarket so the silicone job was done already. I’ll go find one that shows that part as well to make sure I know what I’ll have to do.

Did anyone have issues with cutting their weather stripping? I’m debating the need to borrow a Dremel that I don’t currently have, or if heavy duty scissors will work?

 

I used heavy duty scissors, it's not that difficult to cut thru.

Install videos
www.youtube.com/watch?v=zT7wTUId2C4
www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3NWMsCR_ZE
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2N4mV34vWPk

Hope these videos help.

 

I've had my rack on for about a month. Installed it in 20 degree temps outdoors. Everything buttoned up fine and its solid.

 

has anyone added any extra silicone to the negative space left AFTER the install is complete. Or would this cause pooling or something else?

 

I didn’t use silicone, but I reused my OE bolts that had the rubberized washers on them. No issues or leaks. I’m in Florida where it rains everyday at 4pm.

 

Interesting... I have watched like 20 install videos and I dont think Ive seen a single one do that!

So do you put the washer UNDER the spacer that come with the rack? Between the actual roof and the black cylinder?

 

Negative. I didn’t remove the rubber grommet from the OE bolt. I just installed on top of the fender washer.

again zero water intrusion.

 

oh i see! so go about using teh silicone like normal on teh bottm but that rubber ring will keep water from leaking into through the top. got it! good idea!

 

You could, but I did not. No silicone used.

 

I wonder why people keep insisting on using silicone, when it has been said over and again that butyl tape is the preferred sealant to use...

 

every install video (even from mfg) use silicone.

 

Make sure you install something between the paint and the wind screen gasket....
https://www.4runners.com/threads/prinsu-rack-damage.19455/

 

Have that as well, thank you Chris!

 

I assume you heated up the butyl tape before placing it? Similar to installing a new cover on a headlight fixture?