Roof Rack interference with hard top panel removal

I hope this helps

marty trenkle

I just took delivery of my long awaited Big Bend 4dr with a hardtop and roof racks. I cannot get the front row "removable" panel by the roof rails. Has anyone been able to figure out how to get the panels off the roof?

And Marty, Welcome to the Bronco Nation!

while the video shows a 2 door, I have a 4 door. I have done as shown in the video and it simply won't pass between the roof rail. The latch seems too big in either the unlatch or latch position to pass below the side rail

marty trenkle

while the video shows a 2 door, I have a 4 door. I have done as shown in the video and it simply won't pass between the roof rail. The latch seems too big in either the unlatch or latch position to pass below the side rail

When you go to move it out is the latch in the open or closed position?

I haven’t gotten mine yet so I have no practical experience

It should be the same for both. The one latch in the front is the culprit. Once unlatched, move the panel just enough that you can close it without interference. Then set that latch back into into the closed position. That should do the trick with the clearance issue. The three latches swivel and the last on in the front flips down to release. Just flip it closed and you should be all good.

I tried closing the latch and still couldn't get it to slide out. Even with the help of two friends in guiding the maneuvering of the panel. Granted it was dark and in the 20's, but after seeing the 2 door video I expected it to be easier. I am still looking for video of a 4 door removal if anyone has it. (I really don't want to do back to the dealer and ask them to show me if it's some stupidly simple thing I am missing)

It’s pretty easy once you figure out the latch part, even with the Bimini sunshade installed too.

Thanks so much. It is a tight squeeze (the panels have to rub against each other and the seals for it to work), but it does work!
The video was perfect

marty trenkle

Thanks so much. It is a tight squeeze (the panels have to rub against each other and the seals for it to work), but it does work!
The video was perfect

I so glad @Garemlin found that video. It explains the process better.

I've been thinking about getting another cross rail for the front. Will the front panels come out with a cross rail installed in the front position?

TK1215

It should be the same for both. The one latch in the front is the culprit. Once unlatched, move the panel just enough that you can close it without interference. Then set that latch back into into the closed position. That should do the trick with the clearance issue. The three latches swivel and the last on in the front flips down to release. Just flip it closed and you should be all good.

I have a two door, this works for me.

Soslo2636

I've been thinking about getting another cross rail for the front. Will the front panels come out with a cross rail installed in the front position?

I would move the existing crossbar to the front position and try it before purchasing another crossbar. Also can test how bad the wind noise is before you spend the money.

TMars

I have a two door, this works for me.

TMars

I have a two door, this works for me.

Thanks, I was able to get the roof off. I was being a bit too timid, it is a close fit with the alignment pin. It looks like I'll be able to get the roof off with a front crossbar but I'll try moving the middle one forward before purchasing another.

Side note for those who like me want to dissemble the roof rails for easier storage when not in use. The front bolts and the bolts that hold the movable crossbar in place are T30 the 4 that hold the rear crossbar onto the rails are T27. Just to make it more difficult I guess.

I added the front crossbar (4 dr) and it does add wind noise although I would like to remove the front then the middle crossbar to see how much noise each causes. I'm also thinking about replacing the Torx screws holding the front crossbar in with a knob with threaded stud. I haven't investigated yet to see if there is clearance. It would make the removal of the front crossbar tool-less.