Replacement Instructions for 2007 Dodge Nitro Roof Rails

In 2007, Dodge released an all-new mid-size SUV -- the Nitro -- to complement its existing mid-size SUV, the Durango. One useful feature that came standard on the Nitro was a roof rack, which consisted of two rails spanning the length of the Nitros roof. These rails allow you to install a roof-mounted cargo compartment without damaging the vehicles paint; they also make it possible to strap cargo directly to the rack. Replacing these roof rails is much easier than it looks, requiring only basic tools.

Instructions

1

Park the Nitro on a flat surface and position a stepladder near the center of the vehicle, on the passengers or drivers side.

2

Climb the stepladder and look in the center of the roof rail to find the five roof rail-retaining nuts spanning the length of the rail. Remove these five nuts with a ratchet and socket. Pull the roof rail up and off the Nitro.

3

Position a new roof rail in the place of the old one, guiding the studs through the bolt holes in the rail. Hand-tighten the five roof rail-retaining nuts onto the studs and torque them to 4 to 5 foot-pounds with a torque wrench and socket.

4

Repeat Steps 1 through 3 to remove the other roof rail.