Hi all,

my new (to me) 245 has the factory chrome roof rack.

I have owned 2 245's in the past, but none had the rack. I always wished they had the factory racks.

now that I have one, I'm not sure I like the way it looks! am I crazy?

it seems to throw the lines off. am I just used to it not being there?

If you wanted to remove it, IPD sells plugs that fit into the holes that are left from where the screws were and you could put it back on at a later date if you desired. I have a set of OEM load bars (2) that attach to the gutter rail which attaches in minutes for sale if you're interested. Very functional and can carry quite a bit on them.
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'86 sedan with 439,000 miles on the original engine and automatic transmission

I guess I should add, that the wagon is an 83.
I know. my other wagons were early 90's, and I'm asking for trouble. at least, that's what that little voice in my head kept sayin.

but,it has real headlights. O.K.? it has more character than my later models did. :)
as much as is feasible, I know it has to be "right" so I dont mind fretting over some small stuff. it's got 150000 and it was garaged for the last 10-12 years.

Here is an aftermarket roof rack solution on a 92 245, car is lowered on 16" Hydra rims and has a low profile roof rack with a 60 pound limit... works and looks great (in my opinion).

jorrell
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92 245 291K miles, IPD'd to the hilt, 06 XC70, 00 Eclipse custom Turbo setup...currently taking names and kicking reputations!

Ooops, here is the link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8498733@N02/3263832027/

jorrell
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92 245 291K miles, IPD'd to the hilt, 06 XC70, 00 Eclipse custom Turbo setup...currently taking names and kicking reputations!

I hate them. Taking mine off.

Well I see one responder likes the "vintage" look and another responder likes the "taller" look. To each his own. I've owned 245's both ways and prefer the smoother, lower, cleaner no rack look--in fact while I really don't like the looks of the sedans--way to gawky--the wagons look fine (sans rack and despite the awkward front) to me. Besides, the rackless wagon has a way better aerodynamic CD than the sedan or rack laden wagons. The 1980 245DL I've been driving for about 10 years has none. I've carried many things on the roof by putting down an old bedspread first--except for one time when I temporarily installed a removable rack--and then secured the load with rope/bungees--the tailgate handle makes an convenient anchor point in the rear and the tow hook works in front. Cords around the middle go side to side through the back windows. The most recent addition to the fleet - an '84 245 GLT Turbo/Intercooler - has a rack--it's coming off. Enjoy your 245 no matter what. -- Dave

I like the racks. Gives the car a vintage look.
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http://www.facebook.com/#!/album.php?id=1189132524&aid=53563

It's something new to get used to. Keep it on for awhile, and see if it grows on you. I personally like the racks. It makes the wagons look taller, and cooler!
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Michael Bilinski '89 244 DL