Trick For Removing Base Rails for Thule TracRac SR Sliding Truck Bed Ladder Racks after 10 years  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey, I know exactly what you’re dealing with there, those rubber blocks from the Base Rails for Thule TracRac SR Sliding Truck Bed Ladder Racks Part # TH21603 can really lock themselves in after years of sitting and weathering.

What usually works best is a combination of breaking that seal and giving yourself something solid to pull against. Start by spraying a little silicone spray or soapy water around the edges to help loosen things up. Then try to rotate or wiggle the block back and forth to break that bond before pulling straight up. If you can get a grip on it, a pair of locking pliers can help, or you can thread a bolt into the insert and use that as a handle to pull upward.

If they’re really stubborn, gently prying up from the sides while pulling can help, just take your time so you don’t bend the stake pocket edges. Sometimes a little heat from sitting in the sun or using a heat gun on low can also soften the rubber enough to make a difference.

Once they start to move, they usually come out the rest of the way pretty easily.

Are you planning to reuse the rails after this, or swapping over to a different rack setup?

expert reply by: Heather A

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