Roof Rack

[ctm78]

Just wondering if anyone out there has attempted to make a roof rack for their E46.

It looks like it would be very easy. . .need to make four brackets to attach to the roof to bolt into the threads; and then the accompanying structure. All aluminum should do the trick.

Any thoughts?

 

[aNoodle]

I don't know, man. I suppose you have welded and have a shop to make metal pieces? Given the speeds involved--the weight and stresses--I'd be weary to try to jury-rig something myself. I love my BMW roof rack system.

 

[Kirby]

As you may know, BMW and others, like Thule, make racks for your car.

If you want to make your own, consider using extruded slotted structural aluminum instead of tubing. You will be able to easily build a modular, custom rack for probably about $50 in parts. I use this stuff for work related purposes (mounting sensors, equipment, etc.) as well as a few home projects. It runs anywhere from under $1 to $2 - $3 a foot depending on size, etc. You can do an exact design and they will cut each piece to your specified length for a small cutting fee.

Two companies to choose from:
80/20 - "The Industrial Erector Set" http://www.8020.net
Bosch - http://rexroth.starlinear.com/framing_ec/index.asp