Hi Folks - I made a mounting kit for my traction tracks, I needed something which would not only fit on my Slimline II Rack but also fit on my Rhino Rack Vortex Crossbars when I use them. I typically use the Slimline II Rack in summer and the Vortex Crossbars in Winter. I like to use a Thule Alpine Box for my skis but still the occasional use of the tracks when in snow trying to access backcountry ski trailheads. Anyhow here are some photos. I ordered Unistrut, threaded rod etc. etc. from McMaster-Carr and assembled the kit myself. No drilling necessary everything is either aluminum or stainless steel. I can post a parts list if anyone is interested.

 

I certainly would be interested! Looks great

As a side note. I cannot imagine taking off my Slimline. As far as I’m concerned it’s on there for good! 😆

 

Here's the parts list from McMaster-Carr. I was happy to drill but excited to find a no-drill solution. My Slimline Rack is removable because I'm using the "Audi" attachment brackets which are sold as D5 brackets in the rest of the world.

 

Nice solution.

FYI, FrontRunner now makes accessory brackets which allow you to use a cargo box thereby negating the need to remove the rack. I use a Yakima box semi-often in the summer and this was also a concern of mine.

Quick release cargo box brackets

 

Thanks for the heads up! I'll put me alpine box on top of my D5 Slimline II and see how it all lines up. On my previous vehicle (L322) I couldn't get the box clamps to line up with the crossbars on the Slimline II without the box being way too far back.

 

How much were all the parts on your list?

Thinking about going in that direction. Can you order it online?

 

$130.00 prior to tax and shipping.

https://www.mcmaster.com

Online ordering very fast delivery.

 

Cheers.

FWIW, FrontRunner has a sale on now and their traction mounts are down to $154....so, close.

 

I know! They won't fit on both Slimline II and Vortex Crossbars. Plus I have some mongrel tracks which aren't a direct fit. An Aussie company made a really great one but a) it cost a fortune to ship and b) not a guaranteed fit with my FieryReds.

So yeah $130 is pushing it but it's all top notch rust free materials as opposed to powder coated steel.

 

The slotted spacers are probably not required and the thread sizes could go down from 1/2-13 to 5/16-18. This might save some pennies.