My roof rack needs: full length (no sunroof), secure connection, decent base for lights, compatible with generic fittings for mountable stuff, maybe carry a spare tire eventually. I'd prefer one that connects directly to the roof tracks, but haven't seen any that do. I'd like to avoid noise transmitted to the roof; once had a rack on a Montero that caused a loud low pitch noise from the roof sheet metal drumming at freeway speed...don't want that again!

There seems to be a wide range to select from low end Curt to well known but pricier Thule and Yakima; help me narrow it down. High-end racks like Gobi are out of the question.

Other questions:
Does a rack w/lights impact highway mileage very much?

Are there any aftermarket fittings that fit the GM rack track? I'd like at least four attachment points per side on a full length basket but prefer not to rely on the light crossbars.

 

I picked a nice one up for 300.00 local, not easy to find but every once in. While they pop up.

 

not sure about mileage but it will definitely increase your wind noise

 

i would suggest the Yakima Mega Warrior you can get extensions for it making it full length and yakima has a good accessory line for their racks including light mounts...

 

Yakima is on my short list with Thule and Rola.

 

Ive seen the Yakima and the Rola, wasnt really that impressed with the Rola, but alot of people do run them... do they make a full length version?

 

My Rola is the basic unit with (1) 18" extension.
It goes from the rear of the sunroof to the back of the roof.
If you add another 18" extension you could reach the front of the roof, but you would have to fab some type of mounting bracket using the recessed holes next to the sunroof to support the front of the rack. The mounting rail tracks end before the sunroof.