General Cycling Discussion - Need help with my roof rack fork mount

I just installed a Thule roof rack on my Altima and it seems secure. What I'm having trouble with is the fork mount tray I got from a friend of a friend.

The tray is a Thule model 525 or 529. It's probably pushing 10 years old but seems to be in good shape. I have it attached to the rack no problem, but I'm trying to figure out how to tighten the skewer. I haven't actually tried it with a bike yet because I'm afraid, lol. Does that make a difference?

Basically, it has the skewer and a "handle" type thing at the end, like a quick release, that I've put a Thule lock thru to attach it to the fork block. It seems that I should just put the fork in there, turn this handle until tight, then lock it to the block, but it doesn't seem to work that simply.

Does anyone else have this tray or can someone help me out?

Thanks in advance.

I have a similar type system, although mine isn't Thule, but the principle is the same. The clamp will not work unless there is a bike attached to it, otherwise you will just be spinning and spinning untill you get to the end of the thread of the skewer, which in most cases will not reach the block of the mount. What I do is when I put the bike on the rack and lock the fork, I give it a good tug to make sure that it is secure. Then I attach the rear wheel to the rear mount. Important note, when removing the bike from the roof, MAKE SURE THAT YOU UNDO THE REAR WHEEL FIRST then do the front otherwise you will end up with a bike on your head. not to mention a big gash in the paint job of the bike and the car. (yes I speak from experience) hope this helps

Cheers

Yeah, that does help. Hopefully it will work. I'll be trying it out after work. I definitely appreciate the rear wheel advice!