Rugged Mount Sandwich Plate Hardware: Installation Guide
By ROAM Adventure Co. | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to install Rugged Mount Sandwich Plate Hardware on your roof rack or crossbars without channels, with step-by-step instructions and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Answer
Use the Rugged Mount Sandwich Plate Hardware to mount Rugged Mounts on roof racks or crossbars without channels. The kit's long bolts and plates let you sandwich around your bars for a secure attachment.
When You Need This Hardware
If your roof rack or crossbars don't have channels for carriage bolts, standard mounting won't work. The Rugged Mount Sandwich Plate Hardware solves this by letting you clamp around the bar itself.
This is a common situation with factory crossbars or aftermarket racks that use a T-slot or no slot at all. The kit includes 4 plates and 8 bolts, washers, and nuts—enough for two Rugged Mounts, typically.
What's in the Kit
The kit comes with 4 plates and 8 bolts, washers, and nuts. Each plate sits on top and bottom of your bar, with bolts passing through to create a secure sandwich.
Make sure you have the right tools: a socket or wrench for the nuts, and possibly a torque wrench if you want to follow manufacturer specs for your rack.
Installation Steps
- Gather Tools and Parts: Collect the sandwich plate kit (4 plates, 8 bolts, washers, nuts) plus a socket wrench or adjustable wrench. Verify you have enough clearance above and below your crossbars for the plates and bolts. Check that the bolt length is sufficient for your bar's thickness before starting.
- Position the First Plate: Place one plate on top of your crossbar, aligning its holes with where you want the Rugged Mount to sit. Hold it in place with one hand. Make sure the plate is centered and the holes are parallel to the bar to avoid a crooked mount.
- Insert Bolts Through the Bar: From underneath, insert a bolt through the plate and up through the hole in the crossbar. Repeat for all holes on this plate. If your bar has a slot, you may need to slide the bolt heads into position first. If the bolt doesn't pass through easily, realign the plate—don't force it, as you might strip threads.
- Add the Bottom Plate and Fasten: Place the second plate on the underside of the bar, threading the bolts through its holes. Add a washer and nut to each bolt, then hand-tighten. Ensure the plates are parallel and the bar is sandwiched evenly before tightening fully.
- Torque to Spec and Test: Using a wrench, tighten all nuts evenly in a star pattern. If you know your rack's torque spec, use a torque wrench; otherwise, tighten firmly but avoid over-tightening. After mounting your Rugged Mount, give it a firm shake to confirm it's solid. Re-check tightness after a short drive or first use—bolts can settle.
Product Facts
- Rugged Mount Sandwich Plate Hardware: This kit includes 4 plates and 8 bolts, washers, and nuts, designed for mounting Rugged Mounts on roof racks or crossbars without channels. You get everything needed to securely attach your mounts to non-channel bars, avoiding the need for additional hardware or modifications.
Rugged Mount Sandwich Plate Hardware
