Correct fitting of Avenir 3-bike rack ??

[duncsuk]

Hi,

I've just got hold of a second hand Avenir 3-bike rack (seems from the forum they are well recommended) and would like to check I'm fitting it correctly as

a) my number plate is obscured
b) I can't use the rear wiper

Maybe that's 'normal'.

Neither is a big issue, but as I don't have an instruction manual (could anyone PM with a .pdf copy ??) , I'd like to be sure that it has been assembled correctly and that I am fitting it in the 'usual' manner.

Here's how it looks ...





TIA

[mikexgough]

I cant say but I have been looking at these and the Fiamma........I was under the impression that this Avenir fitted higher than that.......if it doesn't then I'm off to buy a Fiamma......and I can still remove that one when needed.....and add a rear box......think I'm selling it to myself....

[dreamwarrioruk]

we have the exact same one and it is fitted correctly just wants moving up so thebottom bars with the rubber feet on are next to the number plate.mike will be able to tell you more when he gets home as this his wife at the mo,but yes it wants all moving up.just remembered that we also got a smaller wiper blade for the back window,cant remember where we got it from but mr dreamwarrior will be able to tell you more.

[dreamwarrioruk]

shes got it right for once.
yes it need to go higher up. the bottom runners sit around the numberplate on ours and the top rail is as tight up to the rearview mirror. that way you can get a 10 " wiper that will just fit in. ours is left on all the time.

[duncsuk]

Great ... many thanks. Time for another fiddle

I did notice the lip towards the bottom of the tailgate and wondered whether that was the best place for the bottom runners. Will try that next.

Good idea about the 10" wiper blade ... guess that's 250mm in modern money

Did you put anything between the rubber feet and the bodywork ? Worried that dirt could build up and then cause scratches ?

Cheers ...
Duncan

[dreamwarrioruk]

no i didnt on ours as the legs dont rrst on the paintwork but on the plastic trim around the numberplate, after two years there is some marking but im not too fussed as i would only get rid of the bongo to buy another. the straps ave little rubber buffer pads built in so avoids scratches. one point to note the lower straps will sag after use so be aware they make come adrift.did on ours and ended up with a gouge in the bumper. did away with the lower straps. also if you want to lift the tailgate up without supporting it you will need to get the gas struts uprated.

[dobby]

no i didnt on ours as the legs dont rrst on the paintwork but on the plastic trim around the numberplate, after two years there is some marking but im not too fussed as i would only get rid of the bongo to buy another. the straps ave little rubber buffer pads built in so avoids scratches. one point to note the lower straps will sag after use so be aware they make come adrift.did on ours and ended up with a gouge in the bumper. did away with the lower straps. also if you want to lift the tailgate up without supporting it you will need to get the gas struts uprated.

#

I've had the same rack for two years and I've been fitting it wrong and I've got the instructions and it damaged the paintwork! Will try and scan 'em in and mail them?