Multi Bracket Installations
This page is intended to serve as a guide for installation of the multi brackets. As the applications for these are numerous, it wouldn’t be possible to capture all of them, however we’ll do our best to document the most common, which should help you figure out your particular application. As with every product, if you’re not comfortable with your ability to install something properly we recommend enlisting the help of a local shop, and you can always contact us with specific questions.
oem rack rails
One of the most unique features of the multi bracket is the ability to connect them to OEM roof rack rails of most Toyota/Lexus models. Here is a brief overview of that process.. you’ll note this is using a channel which has been removed from the vehicle, which is easier for pictures but not necessary for your install, all of this can be done with the rack still on the vehicle.
Begin by adding the supplied rubber edge protector to the curved contour of the bracket, where it will come into contact with the OEM rail. Simply cut to fit, peel the sticker backing, then press into place. Sometimes it’s easier to use a utility knife to get the backing to start to peel. Do this to both sides of the bracket, then install the supplied M8 bolts through the bracket tabs, and loosely install the channel (track) nuts as shown. Install until the nut will stay on the bolt, not much tighter as you need this loose to get it inside the roof rack channel.
Next install the bracket to the roof rack rail, pushing the track nuts through the slot on the inside. As you tighten, insure the track nuts rotate 90 degrees so that the knurled faces are against the inside of the track. It may be necessary to use a small screwdriver to keep them in the ideal position as you push down on the bracket and tighten the bolt. For location on the vehicle, it’s recommended to spread the brackets out as far from each other as possible, typically just at the end of the channel just before the rack feet begin. Then position the stock cross bars against each bracket and tighten them securely. At this step you only need to “snug” the bolts, you will give it a final tighten at the end.
Add the edge protector to what will be the top edge (see image) of the L support bracket to protect the underside of your roof rack rail. Use the supplied hardware to attach L support to the bracket, placing the knurled flange of the flange nut against the face of the L support bracket inside. Tighten the bolts until just snug, then squeeze the L support up into the bracket. If possible, use a clamp to add force- what you are doing is creating a bracket assembly that completely surrounds your roof rack rail, so the loads placed onto the bracket transfer to the rail, rather than onto just one piece of hardware. Think of it as a fist, where the multi-bracket is the fingers, and the L-support is the thumb.
Awning Extensions
If you are putting a taller awning onto a multi-bracket, then you need to add the awning extension plate. The plate comes with a 10-32 Stainless flat head cap screw, intended to fit into the chamfered side of the small hole near the center of the plate. This allows you to tighten the plate to the bracket securely, but not have the bolt interfere with the awning . Make sure the larger hole of the extension plate lines up with one of the holes of the multi bracket before tightening, if necessary insert one of the awning bolts through both pieces while tightening.
