I am looking for recommendations on which crossbars to purchase. I looked at the factory one but they clamp to the roof rails using screws whereas the after market ones clamp on using a key and are easier to remove when not in use. I am trying to avoid using the ones that attach to the gutters since this will only be used temporarily when transporting a long plank of wood or a ladder. I am aware that the factory roof rails don't run the length of the truck but I suppose I can put a towel on the back portion of the roof and if what I am transporting is real long I can always tie the back of it to the hitch. Has anyone done this before? I guess a full roof rack would be the way to go but I am avoiding the cost, fuel consumption increase and height limitations associated with having one. I will only be transporting something long a few times a year, unfortunately the glass on the tailgate of our trucks doesn't lift up.

 

The factory cross rails do not screw into the roof rails. They are actually clamped on via a latch set-up. There is a special key which comes with the cross rails to lock it to prevent theft.

 

Thanks for you response. I know that they don't screw into the roof rails but I was under the impression the the latches were screw on clamps and not quick release clamps. I will look into it. I am also not sure if it is worth spending more on the factory ones.

 

I have a set of Thule crossbars connected with raingutter attachments and they work great. They aren't defacto quick release, but they are like 10-15 second release... just unlock it and hand turn the large 3 inch **** til it releases from the gutter.

I have hauled lumber on mine and it works great. I have also moved the rails around to fit the task I need them for on the fly. Just amke sure you get the super tall towers to clear the sunroof.

 

So I guess the cross bars that attach to the rain gutters are more useful since you can position them wherever you need them whereas the ones that attach to the roof rails you can't.

 

You can get a factory roof rail extension such as this:

Land Rover Discovery Genuine OEM Factory Lamp Guards

 

I saw the roof rail extensions when I did a search. The only problem that I see is that I have to drive holes on the roof, possibly remove the headliner and the cost keeps pilling up.

 

That's least my theory... I moved them apart this summer to fit a full size canoe then closer to accommodate skis last month. Secure locking mechanism and convenient.

 

you can buy the cross bars for the factory rails off ebay cheap. I've seen them for under $60.00 for a pair. I actually bought heavy duty van ladder racks and drilled higher holes. They install quickly and work amazing. Super cheap off ebay. I bought 4 for under $200, painted them black and away you go.

https://landroverforums.com/forum/di...olution-58224/

 

The idea about modifying a van ladder rack is not a bad one. I will definitely consider that option as well.