Re: Roof rack plugs 90CQ

[Mark A Schmidt <schmidtm@ecn.purdue.edu>]

> 
> I was wondering if anyone has removed the little plugs below the rain gutter
> for a roof rack to clip onto (into)? In the manual it says use a screw
> driver...Ouch!... to pry out the little buggers. Is this the only way to get
> them out? After you do get them out, will they go back in and stay? I'd like
> to install my Yakima ski/bike rack on my 90' 90 coupe Q. Any suggestions?
> 
> Cheers!
> 
> JEF Johnstone
> 
> 90' 90CQ 29K Pearl/Black
> 93' Cannondale DV700
> 
I removed the plastic plugs on my '91 Coupe Quattro to install my Yakima
rack.  As suggested in the manual, I used the screwdriver to "break" out the
plugs.  It takes a little bit of gumption, but really is of no harm to the car.
Just put the screwdriver onto the middle of the plugs (between the perforations)
and give the butt of the screwdriver a hard bump with the heel of your hand.
It will break in the middle and then you can just pull out each section.
It is really quite painless.  

The plugs work quite well for holding the rack... Much better than the
standard under-door clips that are used on other cars.  It is a really
good design.  I have carried my 18' Necky II kayak, Marin Team Issue mtn. bike,
Colnago, and a pair of Karhu skis over some very long distances and
the rack holds and works great with those plugs.  Since the other
posts were mentioned the equipment they carried on their racks, I figure
that I might as well also.

Good luck with your roof rack.  Let me know if you have any other specific 
questions.


Mark Schmidt
schmidtm@ecn.purdue.edu

'91 Coupe Quattro Pearl/Black