How to Remove QX4 Roof Rack Crossbars

[buckeye3d]

I tried and failed to remove the crossbars on the roof rack of my 2002 QX4 today. Anyone willing to help me out? I removed the 4 torx screws...removed the knob you see from the outside...then I'm stuck. It will slide but I can't lift it off. It's freezing outside so I didn't have a lot of time to mess around with it. I can barely feel my fingers as I'm typing this. I'm sure I'm missing something simple.

[Infinitiguy19]

Removing and installing things no matter what they are made of is best done in 50*F and above temps.

See the service manual if you think you missed something: http://Nicoclub.com/FSM

[buckeye3d]

I already checked the body trim part of the service manual. Unless I missed something it only shows how to remove the roof rack...it doesn't show how to remove the crossbars.

[Chuck Tribolet]

IIRC (it was nine years ago), on my 2001, I had to pull the track end caps andslide it out the end. It would probably be easiest with two people. I've got aset of Yakima bars I used on the very rare occasion (like twice in nine years)I needed to carry something up there.

[Pwnin O'Brien]

Yeah, Chucks method is really the only way to completely remove the crossbars from your roof rack. Just remove the end caps from the rails and slide them off.

[buckeye3d]

Thanks guys. Makes sense. I'll give it a try tomorrow.

[buckeye3d]

Worked like a charm. All you need to do is remove the end caps, loosen the outside knobs and slide the crossbars right off. Piece of cake and a 1 person job. Next up remove my rusting running boards!