Roof rack setup
Harbor Freight crossbars and rack.
I painted the crossbars and clamps flatblack and the end caps VHT SP404 Gold Flake.
I took the rails and clamps apart and taped off the following pieces before i painted: silicone grips, locks, and hex screws. I painted the four endcaps separately, as stated above.
The rack wasn't difficult to put together. However, the supplied silicone covers that protect the screws and keep it water tight were a PITA to put on correctly. I had to use electrical tape, which we'll see if it holds up or not. You need good tourqe to get the screw that connects the two rack pieces together. A screw driver didn't cut it for me. I carefully used a cordless drill and used the clutch to make sure I didn't overdo it.
Mounting and centering are really tricky, so I still have to play around with that.
I haven't driven the crosstrek yet to see if there is noise from air passing through the racks, but I assume there will be some. This rack setup was intended to only be used when we go fishing overnight and have 3 or 4 people going along for the ride. I plan to only use it during those times. If it drives well and quiet, I might entertain the idea of keeping it up permanently.
Note: I didn't want a lot of rail overhang, so I took a big chance and used a hack saw to cut the rails down, probably 6" (just guessing). I recommend using a powered saw that can cut aluminum or soft metals. I was able to cut straight and not at an angle, but it definitely was a risk. End caps fit flush as a result of my efforts (I say luck more than skill).