Adding Thule tracks to a Leer cap

I’ve been wanting a cap for a while now to replace my bed rack/tonneau combination to gain more space and versatility. I have been looking for a used one mostly.

There’s a used Leer XR in my color and bed length for $900 about 4.5 hours away from me. Only problem is that it doesn’t have the roof rack tracks installed.

I called the Leer dealer near me and he said they could install the tracks for $400 but it would void the warranty on the paint (I forgot to ask if they, the dealer, will warranty the track install against leaks but I’m guessing no). I also asked for a quote on a comparable cap as the used one including the tracks and he came back with over $3400. I seriously had no idea it would be that much. I was thinking closer to $2000. Naturally now the used cap seems like a pretty good deal. I’m afraid of leaks though as I know if you order the tracks from the factory everything comes molded and seamless, whereas adding them after the fact involves drilling holes.

I’ve read threads about doing this yourself and it seems like something I could do. For those who have added tracks to their cap after the fact, how’s the install holding up? Any regrets? Tips or suggestions? Has anyone had a Leer dealer install the tracks?

 

I had ARE preinstall my tracks when I bought it. I've looked at the install... it's literally just drilling holes and then applying a bunch of silicon to weatherprood. Easy stuff. I know drilling into your shell takes an act of faith, but it's a pretty simple job.

 

btw, $400 to drill four holes and apply silicone is a rip off. It would take a professional like 30 mins.

 

There's nothing "molded" about factory tracks. They are simply bolted on through drilled holes the same way you would do it yourself.

See post #86 of this thread for my suggestion:

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...cks-on-camper-top.483625/page-5#post-18314212

 

I ordered mine with Yakima Tracks. No difference in the cap,they just drill holes and smear silicone. It leaked. I took the tracks off and installed the beefier tracks from Rhino. Much better sealing with the installation kit,larger fasteners and finished not just nuts. The rack is much heavier duty with a higher payload and less expensive than Thule ,Yakima. Both of which I have owned in the past.

 

Thanks everyone. The cap got sold to someone else so I’ll have to keep looking. But good to know it doesn’t have to have tracks already installed. Seems like a job I’d do myself.

 

installing the tracks is a very doable job! Hardest part is just getting the dang things straight. I have had mine on for about 3 weeks and have gone through multiple hard rains and no leaking so far. all it cost me was the price of the tracks and silicone. Much better than the $400 they wanted to charge

 

I had the Yakima tracks installed on my Toyota van for I think about $100 by the local Yakima dealer I that bought everything from. Screws & sealant. Lasted 10 yrs w no leaks until I sold it. Def getting them when I get a canopy