Where to Install S80510 Swagman Roamer LT Roof Rack on Round Roof Corners of Fleetwood Cobalt

Published 12/05/2018

Question:

Just received my S80510 Swagman Roamer LT Roof Rack that i ordered for a Fleetwood Cobalt pop up. Spent a good deal reading through tech questions on etrailer webpage excellent support by the way and reading installation guide prior to drilling into camper top. In the instructions, it says to drill holes no more than 1/2inch from outside edge. the cobalt has rounded edges so installing rack footers with carriage bolts + TremPro 644 Silicone Sealant, instead of self-tapping screws. furthermore, there is a curved aluminum plate that connects ceiling to camper wall. Thinking about locating metal plates associated with carriage bolts, by abutting it to the aluminum plate. Any advice on this approach and how far in from the outside edge the holes should be drilled since the 1/2inch distance is not applicable due to rounded edges? I assume that the carriage bolt assembly is designed to provide stable connection to the camper roof non-abs so it may not matter as compared to the self-tapping screws that should be anchored in solid material expected to be withing a 1/2inch of outside wall.

asked by: Nico

Expert Reply:

You are on the right track on locating where to drill and attach the feet of the Swagman Roamer LT Roof Rack # S80510. Since you have rounded roof corners you'll have to have the feet attach further in than a square corner. Most important will be a secure place to mount the bars over a dimension relative to the edge of the roof. You mentioned there being an aluminum plate in the roof. I'd anchor to that as it would be stronger than the ABS plastic you mentioned as well. Also, if you can use the carriage bolt setup with the aluminum plate that will give you the best attachment.

expert reply by: Jameson C