How to Remove the End Cap of a Thule Bike Rack That is Riveted On, to Replace a Hold Fast Cradle

Question:

How do you get the end caps off a Thule bike rack that are riveted on. I’m trying to replace the hold fast cradle assembly.

asked by: Randi B

Expert Reply:

At the end of the arms of the Thule bike racks that use the Hold Fast Cradle # 7521513002 there are end caps that have to be removed in order to remove the old cradles and put on the new ones.

These caps can either have a screw holding them on, or in your case a rivet. Since there is a rivet, it will have to be drilled out (a screw can be used in place of the rivet once the installation is complete). To work the cradles off and on it helps to twist the cradle side to side while simultaneously pushing the cradle on (or pulling the old one off).

expert reply by: Scott S