Roof rack - diy

[bavarian-raptor]

I am planning to install a roof rack. The problem is, there is nothing to buy in Germany. So a new diy is born. But I love it.

Question:
For the mounts I have to drill in the roof. It's ok for me, but what is the best place for it? In the rain rail or outside.
I looked at many pictures of roof racks you can buy in US. The do it in both ways. So I an wondering what is better.

Outside the rain rail is more space for the threaded rivets.

Inside the rain rail is a double layer of steel. More difficult to drill but more stable, but more water

Thanks for your help.

Greetings from Bavaria

 

[TiFJ]

I don't have any experience with this but personally, I'd avoid the water and put it outside the rail.

 

[BlueOvalF22]

If I do any roof cargo.

I'll drop the headliner like when I did sunroof tracks.

Then I will install L-track bolted down through the roof with a lot of adhesive sealants and a length of c channel the same length as the L-track on the inside.
Any cargo rack or cross bars will connect to the L-track.

How to Use L-Tracks, How to Install Them, and What to Use Them For

Need a flexible tie-down system that allows you to make layout changes? Secure cargo with high-quality L-Tracks that get the job done.

blog.uscargocontrol.com

A T-slot ectrusion works good.

 

[mprice1234]

I think it would be so much better to look into over the bed rack then to go with a roof rack drilling into your truck cab!

 

[Hotrod-Realtor]

Is your Raptor rare in Bavaria? I would assume you get a lot of looks and compliments.