Cross Bars

[Alpo714]

Hello Everyone,

I have a 2004 Honda Pilot EXL with the roof rack.

I would like to purchase and install the cross bars from Honda. But as a I was reading the instructions on how to install the cross bars, the directions indicate that: "The information in this installation instruction is intended for use by only killed technicians who have proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely add equipment to your vehicle. These procedures should not be attempted by "do-it-yourselfers."

See link below:
http://www.bernardiparts.com/Images/...y_AII30491.pdf

http://www.bernardiparts.com/Images/...y_AII30491.pdf

But as I was looking at the directions, its clearly, very easy to install. Is there anything technical or difficult about installing these cross bars that might require honda installation?

[RSQ Pilot]

Originally posted by Alpo714
Hello Everyone,

I have a 2004 Honda Pilot EXL with the roof rack.

I would like to purchase and install the cross bars from Honda. But as a I was reading the instructions on how to install the cross bars, the directions indicate that: "The information in this installation instruction is intended for use by only killed technicians who have proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely add equipment to your vehicle. These procedures should not be attempted by "do-it-yourselfers."

See link below:
http://www.bernardiparts.com/Images/...y_AII30491.pdf

http://www.bernardiparts.com/Images/...y_AII30491.pdf

But as I was looking at the directions, its clearly, very easy to install. Is there anything technical or difficult about installing these cross bars that might require honda installation?

From your quote above it probably would be difficult if your were a killed technician but as a live DIY the crossbar installation would be a piece of cake.

[Alpo714]

Originally posted by RSQ Pilot



From your quote above it probably would be difficult if your were a killed technician but as a live DYI the crossbar installation would be a piece of cake.

Hahahha! Pardon my errors boys. Please replace "KILLED" with "SKILLED."

[jestmaty]

It seems that ALL of their instructions say that.... "Only a skilled technician..."

Don't sweat it, easy as pie to do yourself. I just did mine last month after buying the crossbars from another hp.org member.

Super, super easy if you can turn a screwdriver.

If you decide to diy, don't hesitate to pm, email, or ask on this thread if you get hung up. I, as well as any other hp.org member would gladly help you if you have any problems.

The LX model is a bit more sophisticated because you have to install the rails and stuff, but the EX models already have the longitudinal rails installed new at the factory.

[bgmiller]

How much are you paying for the cross bars? I want some for my LX. I noticed the instructions you posted were for an EX. Does anyone know if the same bars will fit the LX? Anyone have any luck with good-looking aftermarket crossbars?

[TomStromie]

Yes, the LX and EX are different, and I think the parts may have changed after 2007. I purchased my crossbars off eBay and installed them in about an hour.

Here are crossbars that are for sale on eBay now. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2003-...s#ht_500wt_788

[adinar]

I just got a pair of the crossbars off Ebay and installed them tonight. However, I couldn't find the "mark" on the inside of the roof rails to position the crossbars. I know it's small but I swear I couldn't find it. Can someone measure the position of the mark from the end of the roof rails (either from the front or back) so I know exactly where to be looking? Thanks!

[bigdadi]

This pic should tell the approx MARK location

[adinar]

Thanks! Went back & looked again today and found the marks. Keep in mind that it's on the upper rail, and looks like a little dimple.

[cworrall]

Where can I purchase the crossbar holder part seperatly? It's the part you screw the crossbar into. The one that slides into the rail. I stripped mine when I was installing them.

[Puppetmaster]

Originally posted by cworrall
Where can I purchase the crossbar holder part seperatly? It's the part you screw the crossbar into. The one that slides into the rail. I stripped mine when I was installing them.

I know this is months after the fact... but I did that too. 7 ft lbs of torque is not a lot at all, lol. I didn't find a replacement, but used a longer, slightly thicker bolt that went all the way through the bracket and was able retap itself securely, since all the included bolts to is tap into the bracket. I don't know how much I like the OEM cross bars because of that design, so I may just upgrade to a Thule rack later.

[StoneyPA]

Alpo or anyone else who has recently installed these---

The diagram shows a picture of the correction orientation of the front crossbar with the rubber strip closer to the front of the vehicle (narrow metal part in front & wider strip towards rear), but neglects to mention the orientation of the rear crossbar.

Did you install that one the same way, with the rubber strip closer to the front of the vehicle? I'd assume that's the correct way since the instructions don't show anything else...

[Puppetmaster]

I don't know if the diagram in the install instructions is to scale, but it sort of looks like the rubber strip on the rear cross bar is closer to the rear of the car. That's how I installed mine and I hope it doesn't make a big difference, haha.

[StoneyPA]

It doesn't seem like it'd matter but still find it strange that the instructions only show the orientation of the front bar... if common sense came into play at all, they'd just note that BOTH are to be installed as shown OR make a simple note (or another diagram) that the back bar is different!!!

Those translations from foreign languages to English may have something to do with the missing info as well...