Understanding the Yakima Mako Aero Base
The Yakima Mako Aero Base is a trusted solution for securely transporting outdoor gear like kayaks and paddleboards. Known for its durability and sleek design, this base plays a vital role in ensuring your equipment is safe during transit. However, there may come a time when you need to disassemble the unit, whether for maintenance, upgrading, or storage. This guide will walk you through the process, providing step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Why Disassemble the Yakima Mako Aero Base?
Disassembling your Yakima Mako Aero Base might be necessary for several reasons:
- Performing routine maintenance to ensure optimal functionality.
- Reconfiguring the setup for different vehicles or gear.
- Storing the unit during off-seasons to prevent wear and tear.
- Replacing worn-out parts or upgrading components.
Regardless of your reason, this guide ensures you’ll handle the disassembly process like a pro.
Step-by-Step Guide to Disassembling the Yakima Mako Aero Base
Before diving into the process, gather the following tools:
- A standard screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on the screws).
- An Allen wrench set.
- A soft cloth or mat to protect surfaces.
- Lubricant spray for sticky parts (if necessary).
1. Prepare Your Work Area
Begin by setting up a clean and organized workspace. Lay out a soft mat to avoid scratching or damaging any components. This ensures the disassembly process goes smoothly without misplaced parts.
2. Remove the Cradles
The cradles, which hold your gear securely in place, are attached to the base. To remove them:
- Loosen the screws or knobs securing the cradles to the crossbars.
- Carefully lift the cradles away and set them aside.
- Inspect for any wear or damage, especially around the padding areas.
3. Detach the Crossbars
The crossbars connect directly to your Yakima Mako Aero Base. Follow these steps to detach them:
- Locate the screws or bolts fastening the crossbars to the base unit.
- Using an Allen wrench, unscrew these components.
- Slide the crossbars out gently, ensuring no scratches or bending occurs.
4. Remove the Mounting Hardware
To complete the disassembly, detach the mounting hardware:
- Identify the mounting clamps or brackets securing the base to your vehicle’s roof rails.
- Loosen the clamps by turning the adjustment knobs counterclockwise.
- Carefully remove the mounting hardware from the roof rails and set it aside.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
During the disassembly process, you might encounter some challenges. Here are common issues and how to address them:
Stuck or Rusty Screws
If screws are difficult to remove, apply a small amount of lubricant spray and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a screwdriver with a firm grip to loosen them.
Crossbars Not Sliding Out
If the crossbars are stuck, ensure all screws are completely loosened. Gently tap the sides of the bars with a rubber mallet to dislodge them without causing damage.
Missing or Worn-Out Components
During disassembly, you might discover worn-out parts. In such cases, consider ordering replacements directly from Yakima’s official website for guaranteed compatibility and quality.
Reassembling Your Yakima Mako Aero Base
Once you’ve completed the necessary maintenance or part replacements, reassembly is straightforward. Simply reverse the disassembly steps, ensuring all screws and hardware are securely tightened. For added support, refer to the Yakima installation guide that originally came with your unit.
Conclusion
Disassembling the Yakima Mako Aero Base is a manageable task when approached with the right tools and guidance. Whether you’re maintaining, upgrading, or storing the unit, following these steps ensures efficiency and safety. Remember to handle all components carefully and check for any wear or damage during the process. By keeping your Yakima base in top condition, you’ll enjoy many more adventures with reliable gear transportation.
This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by TheFixitLab Team