Do you need to tape off the tourpack to drill for the rack installation? I've never drilled on one.

 

I would....also use a smaller bit first for a pilot hole. That way when you use the standard bit it wont jump and scratch.

 

I taped off a 4" square at each hole location and sat the rack up there, (bike on the lift so it was level), measured about 100 times, decided to move it back an inch so the T Bag didn't disturb the Queen, and drilled, using a small bit for a pilot hole first. Biggest tip is THROW THE TEMPLATE AWAY!!!

Mark

 

The last one I did I also used blue painters tape and made my marks on it with no template. Bike level and eye balled it. Again with a small bit first. I even had the wife come out and look before I drilled.

 

I'm pretty sure that template that comes with the rack is not for the rack. The template that came with mine was actually for the light bar that goes on the tour pack. I didn't use tape because you cant see the lines on the tour pack if you put a bunch of tape on it. I put some little adhesive rubber bumpers on each leg then positioned it where I wanted it. Then I drew around the leg with a sharpie and drilled the holes. Measure lots and drill once is the best advice I can give you.

 

Thanks... my Sunday project.

 

Mine had no template. All it had was this metal plate inside the TP where the holes were drilled. All I had to do was drill through the holes in the metal plate through the TP. Oh ya, I didn't use any tape either.

 

Drilling your first hole is the hardest.....the other 3 are easy.
Taping off the top will keep you from scratching it if the rack starts to slide.
Some guys cut little pieces of double stick tape and put on the mounts so it won't slide.
I usually look at mine for about an hour while I double check the spacing.

 

Which model did you get?
I'm thinking about getting one as well.

 

Premium Tour-Pak Luggage Rack 53665-87