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is there anybody else here that could answer my question?

 

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You will NEVER even notice a lightweight trailer when pulling it, that said I am not to sure about either adding a trailer hitch or drilling holes in the roof. But the roof rack seems to be a lesser of two evils, and most economical way to go and I don't have to worry about storing the trailer when I am not using it. I hate the platforms attached to the rear of the car. There goes the hatch usage and they look like crap, no matter what car I see them on. I like that Thule box much better than the MINI one, too.

 

I prefer the OEM roof rack and available attachments, although Zyamfier's "Drag'n Wagon" trailer is pretty dang cool!

 

I'm leaning toward the dealer installed roof rack as well. If I remember correctly, there are pre-painted pieces that snap in when the roof rack is removed, correct?

Does anyone know if they are available in silver? (I should probably ask my dealer this question.)

Also, is there anyone out there with a 3 or 4 year old car with the roof rack? Any issues?

I am of course nervous about the dealer drilling holes in my roof, and the long term effects of said holes.....but I also have a wife and two kids, and we'd like to be able to take the MINI on some of our trips.

 

The cargo box is the Thule Frontier, a smaller, older model they still seem to be selling (and cheap at $230?). Fully opening the hatch, the rear spoiler on the MCS will hit the back of the box, all you need to do is stick a piece of foam on the box at the contact point, the spoiler certainly seems strong enough to act as a "stop." The hatch opens enough to full access the rear, although you may have to duck your head a bit walking around it. The stock antenna bends to accomodate the box, no problem, you can even take it completely off - I didn't notice any significant loss of radio reception with it off. However, I bought an aftermarket 2 3/4" antenna cuz I like the way it looks... full time.

They definitely have white and black plastic covers, don't know about silver. I think the covers with a black roof is less noticeable, and I've heard some reports that the white plastic covers will yellow over time.

The mounting is very solid/secure and the bolts are sealed with silicone chaulking - I can't see how the mounting would deteriorate over time, or perhaps the doors would would fall off first.

I also worried about the dealer screwing up the mounting, but I think the process is pretty foolproof. They drill using templates that you stick on the roof, and the actual rack is somewhat adjustable to handle the small variations in the final drill hole locations.

I'm very happy with the added versatility of the factory rack, very easy on-off, and I'll be hauling bicycles, kayaks (as in 2) and that cargo box at some point or another (not at the same time).

 

Im also very pleased with my MINI-rack. the dealer does rape you with that price, but there is no sturdier alternative. I have the black plastic covers and they blend in with the roof well. i do wish mini would design a better kind that wouldnt come off as easily though. i have gone throught a full set since i had my rack installed a year ago...
one more quick question snapper. is your shorty antenna the alta one? if not could you put up a link to where you bought it?.

 

ZM3,

It's an Ultrik 2 5/8" billet alum., $25. I got it from MiniMania, but I won't be buying from them again. Along with a few other things, it took them over a month, and at least 3 calls, to get my order delivered to me.... they kept dropping the ball.