Just in the process of mounting a front runner rack and wondering if it was necessary to get ditch moulding to replace the open rail area on my LR3. Have you had any issues with leaving the rails open?
My truck had the factory roof rails and taking them off to install the Front Runner Slimline (with the mounting system...not the brackets) seems like it leaves a lot of area uncovered.
Thanks

 

I had one that did not have the rail system for the load bars. I simply cut the moulding off just in front of the first mounting hole. Not only does the rail system not prevent debris in the channel, the moulding is just as bad.
If you remove the moulding completely to cut it, clean out the sponge at the curved section at the front and remove the collected debris just above the windshield.

As for it being open, I think it is better off being sprayed down (rain & car wash) occasionally while open vs never while under the moulding.

Hope this helps

Jeff

Standard Disclaimer: I may be wrong.

 

hi there, I’m asking myself the same question as I’m in the middle of putting the roof rack on now. Did you end up leaving it open? I had two bolts that were rusted in because of the debris under the original molding. I’m leaning towards leaving it open again.