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I got lucky this week and was able to get a pair of the Volvo roof "Euro rails" from a '91 240 SE that had just come in. These are interesting in that they are mounted with no visible screws showing. I found three torx-head machine screws under the headliner for each foot and removed them. So far so good..... BUT just as you're ready to relax, those mad Swedes throw you a curve! I expected to find some type of the ususal "collapsing rubber-nut" gizmos attaching the rack like most mfgs use, but on this car there were these strange spacers with an internal threaded piece which in turn has threads on the inside for the machine screws. This internal piece can be unscrewed and removed from above. The unit it is in is shaped like a top hat (inserted upside down into the roof) but here's the kicker: the roof sheet metal fits into a groove running along the outside circumfence of the top hat "brim".... they can't be removed unless you force/pry them out! As far as I can tell Volvo puts them in when the actual roof is formed. Thanks a lot Volvo! Now I'm looking for an alternative. Since these will only be a "cosmetic" addition to my roof (I won't be using them to carry anything) I am considering attaching them with a good adhesive. Contruction adhesive to be exact. No drilling, no leaks, no muss, no fuss. Any thoughts? Otherwise I'll need to drill small holes, add a small spacer under the roof with a large thick washer and attach with the machine screws I salvaged. If anyone has an experience in this area I like to hear from you. Remember, they have to be attached from below so the normal "roof rack nuts" that collapse and secure themselves as you tighten down the attachment screws are out. Thanks!
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