Finally got my Thule rack mounted across the bed (pics)...

[DaveS]

I assembled my rack today, using my idea to mount my 20-year-old Thule rack load bars to the bed cleats. I all went together fast and once tighted down is totally rock-solid.

The tubes are 1" anodized aluminum that a buddy who builds boat towers gave me. I drilled 3/8" holes through the Thule bars and anchored them with 6" bolts. I used fender washers to cover the hole in the cleat, and they fit the cleat very nicely and don't interfer with the big plastic nut on the cleat.

I can now mount all my Thule stuff to the bars and have it easy to get to. Next week, I'll mount my Thule ski box to it and head for Mammoth Lakes, CA for a good long-drive test of this set-up.

Happy New Year!

- Dave S

Vshott - If you can still get those pieces made, I'd love them - they'd beat the washers all to crap!

[tnbowhunter]

Looks Professional, great job!!!

[Squid]

I love do-it-yourselfer's.Looks great.