Apparently the guys in China making the knock-off roof bars and selling them on eBay are not worried about GM's lawyers. The knock offs cross bars were smaller cross section, of thinner extrusion, flimsier end caps, and didn't fit tightly compared to OEM. When all I had was the aftermarket they seemed ok, until I got a set of OEMs and could put them side-by-side and see the differences.

 

You're probably right....I DID find the knockoffs on eBay and the China racks have copied the O.E.M.s. To the O.P., do your research and stick with the O.E.M.'s and you won't be disappointed.

 

Yup, some aftermarket ones do indeed have the HUMMER molded in. Mine are molded, but I'm pretty sure they're aftermarket, as the locks do not use the SP1-SP5 keys; my keys are completely different. The bars seem sturdy enough, but I don't load them up with too much weight, and I've never had the opportunity to actually compare them to OEM, so...

 

Same link posted above. Understand the "load rating": Dynamic(working, or lifting load is the force that will be applied to the linear actuator while it is in motion) vs Static (the holding load, is the force that will be applied to the linear actuator when it is not in motion)! The OEM bars are rated at 250lbs each and AM bars are rated at 150lbs each. Other than myself who puts over 300lbs on the roof to justify buying OEM?

 

I've got a set and they were China knock offs. Hummer molded into end cap. Barely use them anymore. Gas usage goes way up. Conversely milage goes way, way, way down
I'm talking 3mpg easy. Yeah these pigs get pizz poor economy to begin with but with racks, basket, lights and cargo its really a ding.

My basket, racks are in basement, where they'll remain till the fuel fairy comes to lower gas prices again lol.

If you live near se Wisconsin you can buy racks and the basket.