Audi OEM bike rack & door seals?
07-01-2008, 02:21 PM
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Audi OEM bike rack & door seals?
Hi Everyone,
I just installed the OEM rack on my a4 sedan. I'm a bit concerned about the door seals. With the rack installed, they take the contour of the rack (which is nice finished look). However, I wonder if they will bounce back when I take it off for the winter? Anyone have experience with this?
The rack was pricey, but looks nice, but not at expense of the rubber seal around the door!
Thanks!
Mark
I just installed the OEM rack on my a4 sedan. I'm a bit concerned about the door seals. With the rack installed, they take the contour of the rack (which is nice finished look). However, I wonder if they will bounce back when I take it off for the winter? Anyone have experience with this?
The rack was pricey, but looks nice, but not at expense of the rubber seal around the door!
Thanks!
Mark
07-02-2008, 09:10 AM
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Shoulda got the Avant!
But seriously, just make sure the rubber and clamping bits are kept clean. I frequently keep the seals clean and "dressed" with 303 Protectant. This will keep them supple and enable them to bounce back better.
07-02-2008, 11:38 AM
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my Thule rack does the same to the seals
But I don't keep the rack on 100% of the time, so they do spring back into alignment.
- Obviously having the rack on all the time is a bit of a MPG drain, plus spoils the look at bit.
Also be aware about the pad rubbing on the paintwork - it's a good idea to clean the area before you put the rack on.
Could you post a picture, I was wondering what the OEM rack was like compared to the Thule, I have a feeling that the OEM mounts better (more horizontal bars).
What's the mechanism like? Screwing the Thule on/off each week or so is a bit of a pain.
- Obviously having the rack on all the time is a bit of a MPG drain, plus spoils the look at bit.
Also be aware about the pad rubbing on the paintwork - it's a good idea to clean the area before you put the rack on.
Could you post a picture, I was wondering what the OEM rack was like compared to the Thule, I have a feeling that the OEM mounts better (more horizontal bars).
What's the mechanism like? Screwing the Thule on/off each week or so is a bit of a pain.
07-03-2008, 05:31 AM
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Exactly
I agree on your look comment. That's the other issue I have. However, my alternative is putting it in the trunk... and i'm not sold on that either.
So, i'm leaning on putting it on / taking it off everytime I ride (about twice a week). I had the clear plastic bra type stuff underneath the pads, but if I clean the area before I put it on, I might not need this. Plus, for long trips, it's nice to have.
I'll try and get to pictures later in the week. I'll take pics before my next ride.
So, i'm leaning on putting it on / taking it off everytime I ride (about twice a week). I had the clear plastic bra type stuff underneath the pads, but if I clean the area before I put it on, I might not need this. Plus, for long trips, it's nice to have.
I'll try and get to pictures later in the week. I'll take pics before my next ride.
07-03-2008, 10:02 AM
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well trunk / rear seats
My 19 frame just doesn't fit in the trunk even with both wheels off; and I can't really be bothered to remove the handlebar!
The scratching is an issue, I think I put a minor nick on the bumper before I got the rack, and of course getting mud all over the fabric on the rear seats is annoying.
I'll be riding up in Marin this weekend probably, I'll take a photo too.
The scratching is an issue, I think I put a minor nick on the bumper before I got the rack, and of course getting mud all over the fabric on the rear seats is annoying.
I'll be riding up in Marin this weekend probably, I'll take a photo too.
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