Roof Rack Wind Noise Reduction

I was working on adapting a roof rack on the 4runner it made a lot of wind noise enough that i took it off until i had time to work on a deflector for the front and get the plywood in the basket.

Roof rack wind noise reduction.

Results from experimental modal analysis and sound pressure spectrum measurement in a wind tunnel indicate the direction of design modification for reduction of the roof rack noise and vibration. The wind noise we hear from some roof racks is known as aeolian no ise and is produced by wind when it passes over or through objects. Although wind fairings do not eliminate the noise 100 percent it does minimize it significantly to prevent you from being distracted while you are driving. A wind fairing s goal is to reduce the wind noises which are brought about by the roof rack you have placed in your vehicle.

A wind fairing is a windshield that is placed on the front crossbar of a roof rack. Anything you put on the outside of your vehicle will result in a noticeable amount of noise while driving. When i had it on i realized i had to. If the surface the wind passes over has a consistent shape the disturbance becomes tonal and at certain frequencies very annoying.

You may not recognize it but even crossbars from a ski rack or an empty roof basket create a barrier against the wind that will make some annoying sound or noise. The top section of the wind fairing attaches to the front crossbar while the bottom rests on top of the car. If you still notice roof rack wind noise after checking your rack and mount attachments and want to further pursue roof rack wind reduction consider installing a wind fairing.