Butyl Tape on roof rack

Installing a roof rack this weekend and I see some recommend butyl tape for the install. Will butyl tape alone be enough to prevent leaks? If so, how are you using it? If there is something better, let me know. I want to be able to remove it and reinstall if needed, so don’t want something permanent. I’m afraid if I use silicone that removing it and reinstalling will be difficult.

 

i used butyl tape when i did the Victory roof rack for my 4runner even though the install called for RTV. i had no leaks through the rain and snow. i would definitely stick with butyl and silicon washers. when i sold the rack it was very easy to remove and replace with the stock hardware.

 

these are the washers i used from mcmaster-carr

 

I used rubber washers and cheap outdoor window silicone. No leaks so far and it’s easy to remove if needed (I’d just have to reapply the silicone when installing the rack again)
I also bought stainless bolts and washers to use instead of the ones that came with my rack....

 

I used marine grade silicone in addition to the provided butyl strips/pads. Going on 2 yrs with no leaks.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/install-rhino-rack-vortex-rlt600-roof-rack.624050/

 

Thanks everyone. I ordered the washers and butyl tape. Going to give it a shot. I’m sure the silicone is a better seal, but I want to be able to remove easily and put it back on at a later time. Not sure I’m comfortable filling the holes with silicone and then screwing in the bolts. Looks like it would push the silicone into the headliner.

 

Butyl tape is the way to go!

 

I did the same thing. Added uv resistant marine grade silicone in addition to the supplied butyl tape.