any new ideas how to secure my smittybuilt defender rack from theft............locking bolts some how, some sort of fasteners idk..............i can pry easily lock the basket to the brackets, but what about them just unbolting it off the rain gutters

 

I don't know what the thread size is for those nuts, but there are these:


Almost like an ignition switch bolt, the head snaps off when torqued. In order to get it off, you have to hit it with a chisel and hammer and tap it around counter clockwise. It's a pain to remove them, in other words. Makes a lot of noise and takes lots of time.

 

I will look it up when I feel better, thanks so much, sick in bed now bleh lame

 

McMaster has a ton of security nuts. Worth looking through to get an idea of what you need and then can probably source from other suppliers once you know what to look for.

 

Tac weld the nuts or you could use red loctite on them. either way it won't be a grab and ****** to steal the rack.

 

how do u get it off later if needed

 

If tack welded, grind the tacks off and remove, loctite,, heat up,and remove.

 

and that is exactly what a thief would have to do after they figured out how to remove the rack.....not worth their time or effort...

 

I use bike rack locks to secure a few of my racks and similar things and to secure things to them (axe, shovel, etc.). There are various types. You might be able to replace one of the bolts shown in your first pic. Basically screw the lock in and turn the key. The **** will spin and the 3/8" threaded stud can't be removed.

Hitch Bike Rack Locking **** - SportRack – The Way Outside