With the reports of the thin roof sheet metal, I've changed my mind on getting a roof rack to carry my kayaks on the Fit.

 

How heavy are your kayaks? If you don't overload the rack, you should have no issues.

 

They're not that heavy, about 55lbs but the sheet metal is pretty thin up there. Other members have already dented them just from waxing. I've waxed mine a few times never had a problem, but did notice the thin sheet metal.

 

Interesting thing is BMW has the same seams on the roof with rubber fillers, but the rack mounts are pre-built in to the seam and they have a 4" is piece of rubber you pull out to attach the pedestals. Honda could add this pretty cheaply...

 

Bringing this tread back...


I have recently changed my 2007 to a 2011 and was using the Thule set up on my 2007. For my 2011, I was thinking of doing the same but then I've come across the Brazilian market Fit Twist. They have Roof Side Rails !!!!


Looking at the pictures, the roof rails seems to be sitting on that roof trim but I am not sure if there are any 'anchors" or welded seams underneath the trim. I've looked everywhere to find roof rails for the Fit but couldn't find any.


I am trying to avoid that Thule "Feet" clamping onto the paint and the rubber pads leaving a mark (like the one I had on my 2007). My other alternative is to get the rails put on along side the trim like the one on page 4.


Has anyone seen a Fit with roof rails?

 

I once saw a Fit with after-market roof rails. I got excited and wanted to have the rails mounted on my Fit too. After exploring it for a while I came to the conclusion that the EX moon roof makes installation complicated. So, I did not follow-through. I have after-market roof rails on my mini van. They have worked well, never leaked, protect the paint and delicate roof sheet metal.

 

I actually have some Thule components to sell if anyone is interested. I have the 480R Foot pads and the 47 inch Aero blades. I got them at an REI garage sale but then decided I don't really need a roof rack on both of my cars.

 

i did Yakima on mine, works great

 

Yakima roof rack with Jetstream bars and Yakima Jaylow kayak carrier.


And in preparation for getting a Kayak carrier system:


Vinyl wrapped roof (dirt, rocks and water fall from kayak), 3M clear protection on headlights (strap may touch), roof contact points for rack, rear lower bumper (strap will contact), front bumper near tow hook (strap might contact), most of hood and parts of fender tops (was planning on using hood straps but haven't done it yet).


If you're wondering, the roof was starting to dent in since I've washed and waxed, more dents appeared when I vinyl wrapped the roof and even more appeared when I installed the rack system.

 

Does anyone know where I can get replacement parts for a Rhino Rack? Mines missing an M311 Foot Plate. I tried e-trailer and they don't sell individual parts.

 

Try here -

https://www.google.com/search?q=rhin...hrome&ie=UTF-8

 

Hey, I found what I need at
cargogear.com
Thanks and I hope this helps someone else. I've been tearing my hair out trying to call Rhino Rack customer service.