Finally got the time to mount my new roof rack on my 2023 110 Carpathian/V8. Had everything ready to go, security torx bits, heat induction tool for the lock-tite. Pop off the rubber caps and I can’t get the security torx bit on!!!! Figuring it was my bit set, I Went to parts store to try another bit, still can’t get it on!!! Got home and noticed the dimples in top of the pin in the middle of the torx star. Anyone know if JLR is now hitting these bolts with a center punch, to expand the center pin so we can’t get tool on here to remove bolts and mount racks? If so, any ideas how to work around? See pics

 

I have a V8 CE and wanted to mount the expedition rack on it but JLR has not approved the rack for the V8 for whatever reason. I have seen people with the V8 mount racks on their cars so I know that it can be done. Try using some penetrating lubricant and see if that would loosen the bolts. I have heard that some had to resort to drilling the bolts out. Others have experienced a lot of difficulty removing bolts even on non V8 Defenders. Keep us posted and good luck.

 

@wcc18999 It's not a "too tight" situation with these bolts. JLR is now using a security torx head to "slow down" people from removing this trim to get the rails fitted.

@ski2sea Harbor Freight has security bits for this. I have a set that I've accumulated over several years and projects. If I don't have one HF is usually my next stop.

This isn't an issue of physically not being able to mount a rack. This is function of JLR's legal team thinking there is a risk with not just installing one, but loading it. It's that load mounted up high on a "performance platform" that is causing them to pucker up and say no.

 

I needed the security torx bits for the standard rack that came as OEM equipment. No biggie.

 

You need a 5 point security torx bit not the normal 6 point security torx bit.

 

@ski2sea if you are certain that you have the right pattern and believe it's just the diameter of the center hole that is off you might try clearancing the hole with the same size drill bit.

 

Bingo bango, totally overlooked that! 5 pointer in the am 🤙

 

Not all Torx bolts are created equal. The subtle differences can be confusing.