Can I Use the Rhino-Rack Aero Bar Rack # Y02-480B on a 1995 Ford Aerostar with No Headliner?

Question:

My van is gutted to bare metal inside. I know this rack is for other types of roofs. Just wondering if I could use it on bare metal. Why wont the hardware for a resin roof work on a bare metal roof? The parts recommended from my last question ended up being 2x the price of this setup. I just need to understand what is stopping me from using this package on my van.

asked by: Jimothy

Expert Reply:

Great question! Typically, we do not recommend using the Rhino-Rack Aero Bar Roof Rack # Y02-480B with vehicles with normal metal roofs because the bolts that drill into the roof actually protrude on the other side. The other end requires a nut that fastens the tracks to the roof. Technically, since you have a stripped metal roof, the rack would work great for you. However, if you plan to ever put a headliner on your 1995 Ford Aerostar, the headliner would have to cover that bolt/nut.

If you are set on a Rhino-Rack system, I confirmed with my tech that they do have tracks that you can install with rivets that can be installed on your roof without protruding into the vehicle on the other side. Those are the 53" RT-Style Tracks # RRRTV148. For the crossbars and feet for this route, you need the # Y02-480B-NT.

expert reply by: Bob C