I installed the Yakima fake rain gutters about 4 years ago; I have used the
rack to carry skis and up to 2 bicycles.

I installed the fake gutters by drilling through the fiberglass (with great
trepidation) and sealed the gutter/glass joint with clear silicon.

The 2 bikes were the heaviest load; prolly around 60 lbs; opening the top is
a struggle, but doable.  I have installed the bike racks at the outer most
extreme ends of the bars, to facilitate loading from each side, but have
since moved the racks to the passenger side so I can load the rack from the
open slider.  I'm 6'4", with most of that in my arms 8-) so reaching almost
to the center is not too difficult.

Since then, I have driven up the Owens valley in Eastern Ca., with a serious
headwind (20mph+) while attempting to maintain 55-60mph; the additional wind
drag is definitely noticeable!

I have observed no detrimental effects to the fiberglass, hinges, latches,
etc.

Roger Bowman - bowmanrp@ earthlink.net
Live Smart.  Think for Yourself.  Transform the Future

----------
>From: Davidson <wdavidson@THEGRID.NET>
>To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>Subject: sports rack to pop top
>Date: Thu, Sep 2, 1999, 10:40 AM
>

> Has anyone EVER had ANY problem with mounting their sports rack to the
> fiberglass pop top???
> With the pop top hinges?
> With the pop top latching mechanism?
> Or with the fake rain gutters drilled into the fiberglass?
> Thanks
> Bill
> 90 Westy Syncro
>