Yakama FatCat T-Slot adapter

thingiverse

Warning: I'm currently in the middle of a minor redesign, and I'd like to bring something to your attention regarding the part that fits into the T-slot - it's slightly larger than expected. Fortunately, they mount perfectly, but once installed, they lock firmly in place and won't budge. If you're thinking about creating these adapters, please wait until I've posted the updated redesign and removed this warning sign. Below are three different adapters designed to attach a Yakama FatCat ski rack to a slotted car top rack. This project is not focused on cost savings since Yakama sells the adapters for $20. The goal here is to create an adapter that perfectly fits your specific racks. Please keep in mind that this is my first multi-plane Fusion 360 project, so I'd appreciate your kindness and understanding. Here are the three adapters I've designed: 1. Adapter for 2012 VW GTI racks 2. Adapter for 2017 VW GTI racks 3. Generic adapter for flat racks (Note: I made a mistake by assuming the 2017 rack was totally flat) In addition to these adapters, you'll also need to create a T-bolt to secure them in place. It's crucial to drill and tap the hole straight into the stock that slides into the rack slot. For those who are interested, here are two approaches I've taken: 1. Using flat steel from Menards to slide into the rack slot and tap for a ¼-28 stainless bolt. However, this method has its drawbacks - if the bolt is too long, it'll jam into your racks; if it's too short, it might pull out the threads. 2. I plan on redoing this approach and using stainless stock to slide into the channel, then drilling and tapping a metric bolt that matches the one used by Yakama in their quick-attach kit. To secure it in place, I'll use permanent thread lock. In the end, this will give me T-bolts that look just like those found in the commercial adapter kit.