Anyone with E39 roof rack?

[m357]

I want to put a removable roofrack to help move some stuff around. Anyone here has one and any links/suggestions?

[MNsport528i]

Search for BMW Thule 753 foot - designed spec. for the E39. Screws into covered threads in raingutter.
Check here:
http://shopping.yahoo.com/s:Car%20Ca...del=BMW%202000
and check ebay, craig's list. I found one for $100 on ebay.

I would NOT recommend a Yakima with the E39 specific clips - I had one loosen and 'walk' back while carrying bikes - scratched up the roof , but cleaned up after buffing. The Thule is designed for the E39 and will not move/shift around.

[silverE39]

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...ight=roof+rack

[fudman]

Thule actually has two models, the 753, which replicates the BMW roof rack (which bolts onto roof) and the 400XT with 260 fit kit (which clamps on). The BMW rack can only use BMW accessories (pricey). The Thule rack is available in their universal square bar which accepts the entire Thule line of accessories (reasonably priced on Craigslist). I would recommend the BMW rack or the Thule 753, if you intend to carry heavy objects. For lighter objects, like skis, the 400XT is OK. I just picked up a set of 400XT w/260 fit kit and bars for $25 on Craigslist. The BMW rack typically goes for about $125+ and the Thule 753 is around $100+ on eBay.

[MNsport528i]

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...ight=roof+rack

Nice setup silverE39.
To clarify earlier statement about Yakima - I meant avoiding the Yakima Q-towers with adapter clips for the E39. Go with the Thule 753 foot/base and bars, then add just about any kind or brand of bike carrier, cargo tray, or other accessory that you want.

[m357]

Thanks guys, i am moving maybe 70lbs tops and will be looking for the largest box/storage thing i can find.

[PScalfano]

I have the OEM load bars and a bike holder (Profile 2000). I like how it bolts directly onto the roof with special anti-theft bolts. At speed, it whistles sometimes - it's kinda creepy. (I'm looking for another bike holder that matches my current one if anyone is wanting to get rid of theirs.)

I only have a pic with the bike on there, but here:

[MNsport528i]

Finally installed the Thule 753 kit last night - bars and feet only. Solid and way better than the Yakima setup I had tried previously. After driving around I think you'll want to add the fairing (Thule 871xt Fairing (Medium)) as it does add roof noise.
Other comments if you do buy a used kit:
- make sure that the Thule specialty install tool is included and all the screws
- probably common sense, but soak the roof mount screws with WD40/Liquid wrench prior to install, I tried to just go ahead and install the screws but they needed a good cleaning to install easily

[02Pilot]

The Thule rack is very good. Even without the fairing it isn't too bad for noise, even with two bikes at highway speeds.

Use a little anti-seize on the mounting bolts - protects the threads in the roof mounts from damage and corrosion.

[brandon5069]

roof racks look so cool on E39's...

[m357]

Another question, has anyone used one of those cargo boxes on the rack and how much shit have you cramed into one?...