Artificial Rain Gutters for Roof Rack

I wanted to be able to use my Yakima rack and accessories over the bed of my Ford Maverick. The artificial rain gutter they sell would have been difficult/impossible to install the way I wanted it. I toyed with several ideas, but landed on using Yakima rain gutter towers with some aluminum L-channel 90 degree angle stock and aluminum square tube stock I had. The result was what I wanted. I particular, I was able to attach the rear cleats far enough back to use our tandem bike carrier on the rack without having to get into the tail light cavity.

1" 90 degree angle stock aluminum

1" Square tube aluminum Stock

3/8" stainless bolts (probably overkill)

Dremel-like tool with cutting wheel

File

Drill and bits

Hacksaw

Measuring device

Marking device

Punch for dimpling so your drill bit doesn't drift

Cut pieces to length

Mark cuts to be made with cutting wheel

Use drill if you'd like nice rounded ends to your slots

Make cuts with a steady hand and lots of patience (I went through 10+ cutting wheels, even using more heavy-duty types)

Use file to remove burrs and smooth sharp edges.

For installation on your application, take your time and get the right hardware. I drilled into the rail of the bed of the vehicle, came up from the underside with bolts that should have been shorter (or used more washers on them). The nut was in the tube because the head of the bolt wouldn't fit. I used a screw driver wedged in the tube to hold the nut in place while I tightened the bolt. In hindsight, I don't think I needed to make the top hole in the tube, although it may have made it easier to start the bolt in the nut (which was very easy). Obviously, you are responsible for any risk you take with this project. Be safe.