Do I Need To Add Support Inside The Camper Shell On My Tacoma When Adding The Yakima Tracks?

Updated 09/21/2020 | Published 09/16/2020

Question:

I’m looking to add the Yakima 54 inch add a track to roof cap rails and I’m wondering if I need to add any kind of support on the under side of the shell when I add these to the top of it ? Will possibly be running a RTT later down the road

asked by: Cody

Expert Reply:

You can use the Yakima 54" Tracks for Roof Racks # Y01127 without adding anything underneath. As far as protection, there is a plastic piece that will go in between the rail and the roof, so you don't have to worry about it damaging your roof. As far as support, that's all up to you. These tracks are made for the cab of your truck, if you plan on putting it on your camper shell, figure out what material the roof is made of. If it's metal, I don't recommend adding any additional support. If it is made of fiberglass and you plan on putting a heavier load on the bars, then you could find a metal piece the same size as the plastic piece that comes with the kit. You can grab this at your local hardware store.

When mounting the tracks, try to find a spot that has the most support. Whether I recommend adding additional support will depend on the material of your camper shell.

I've included a video of the install if you wanted to take a look!

expert reply by: Adam E