Troubleshooting Plastic Endcaps That Won't Stay In Place On Rhino-Rack Vortex Crossbars

Question

Question:

After locking the endcaps, I can just pull them off. This cant be right as it defeats the security. I am also concerned they may fall out or be pulled out by the aerodynamics. It seems that I am seating the endcaps but it looks to me that the clasp on the lock is not engaging the slot on the bar. Any suggestions on what I should do? Thanks. PS. These are Vortex crossbars VA126B

asked by: Andrew G

0

Expert Reply:

Regarding the endcaps popping out on your Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - 49" # RRVA126B-2, this is not a common occurrence and I have not heard of this happening before. Make sure the rubber strip, or anything else for that matter, is not getting caught between the crossbar and endcap. Then make sure you are fully pushing the plastic endcaps into place and locking them all the way with the included key. If you are still having issues then let me know and we can dig deeper into the issues you are having.

I also recommend upgrading to the metal lock endcaps: Rhino-Rack Locking Endcaps for Vortex Aero Crossbars - Metal Cores - Qty 4 # RRVA-LEC4. This will do a better job of keeping channel-mounted accessories safe and secured and tend to hold up better than the included plastic locks.

expert reply by: Andrew N

0

David

5/14/2024

I'm having the same problem. The end locks tabs are not appropriately engaging the slots on the bar. I've already lost one end cap due to this.

Andrew N.

5/15/2024

@David If the above method didn't work, I would say that your end caps are either worn out or they are defective. If you purchased them recently then maybe it would be under warranty.

Bryce

12/16/2024

Just opened all the boxes and installed rack with vortex cross bars. I have the same issue with the plastic end caps not locking in place when turning the plastic lock with the little blue key. Tried all four ends then took one crossbar off to get a better look. What I discovers is that even though the end cap is pressed as far as will go on the end of crossbar and the plastic lock is as far into end cap as it will go, the end of the plastic lock lock which looks like a “T” is still short of the little cut out in the end of cross bar by 1-2 mm. It can’t engage the cut out. Same on all four ends. Either the cut out is too far from end of cross bar or the plastic locking thing is too short IMO. What do I do now?

Andrew N.

12/16/2024

@Bryce Hey Bryce, I'm reaching out to Rhino Rack to figure out what's going on here. Sorry for the delay, but I will get back with you as soon as I get an answer from them.

Bryce

12/18/2024

@AndrewN Ok great.! I contacted them also after my message above (by phone). The rep I spoke to said he had not heard of the issue before and for me to take photos. Working on that. I purchased from etrailer though. Hence my reason for reaching out to you first. I can send you same photos if you would like .

Andrew N.

12/18/2024

@Bryce That's great to hear, I hope they get back with you or me ASAP! Sorry to keep you waiting. Yes, if you have photos to send, that would certainly help understand what is going on. Feel free to send those over to the email address you get this response from.

See All (4) Replies to Bryce ∨

Answer 1

It sounds like there is either a defect with the end caps or they have been damaged. In any case they would need to be replaced. If they are defective you can either reach out to the manufacturer or vendor directly for a replacement or if they were…

view full answer...

Answer 2

Hello Alberta, thanks for reaching out. I have heard of this happening before with the Voyager monitors where condensation gets inside and fills the camera with water. Sadly there is not a great way to clean this and the camera is most likely done. I…

view full answer...

Answer 3

Yes, the Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Roof Rack system will fit your 2023 RAV4 LE with a naked roof. You will need the following to complete the roof rack: -Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars #RRVA126B-2 -Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs #RRRLKVA -Custom DK Fit…

view full answer...

Answer 4

Hello Josh, You’ll be just fine, the raised rails will give you the clearance you need. The Rhino-Rack Sportz Roof Rack for Raised Rails - Aluminum - Black - Qty 2 #RR24CG is a great choice for your 2024 Subaru Ascent. I’ve attached a picture of the…

view full answer...

Answer 5

The roof rack I recommend for a 2019 Volkswagen Jetta (All Models) is the Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbar part #RRVA126B-2, part #RRRLKVA, and part #DK424. This system is a great option because it has most of the same features as other top tier…

view full answer...

Answer 6

If you are contemplating whether to transport 2 50-pound fishing kayaks on your 2009 Honda CR-V or your 2007 Honda Pilot, there are crossbar systems that are compatible with both vehicles. For your 2009 Honda CR-V with flush rails, I recommend the…

view full answer...

Answer 7

Yes, there is a set of crossbars that will fit the factory side rails of your 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe. It is the Rhino-Rack RVP Roof Rack for Fixed Mounting Points item #RR87QJ. These crossbars mount directly to the side rails and have more than enough…

view full answer...

Answer 8

The best easy-load kayak carrier solution is the Thule Hullavator part #TH898 that you referenced which makes loading kayaks much easier as you only have to load them at about waist height and then push the rack and kayak up to the roof with the gas…

view full answer...

Answer 9

The A.R.E. topper on your 2020 Toyota Tacoma is outfitted with Yakima tracks. As such, the best thing to use is a rack system designed for Yakima tracks. I recommend the Rhino-Rack Quick Mount Legs for Vortex Aero Crossbars, part #RRRLT600, along…

view full answer...

Answer 10

Aside from a slight change in the appearance of the crossbar (the WingBar Evo has some boxed edges as opposed to the completely smooth front of the AeroBlade) the biggest differences are the rubber strip on top of the crossbar and the weight…

view full answer...

Troubleshooting Plastic Endcaps That Won't Stay In Place On Rhino-Rack Vortex Crossbars

Products Featured in This Question

Product Page this Question was Asked From

Featured Help Information

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching