I updated the thread to answer some of your questions and help other people down the line. Here’s what I wrote:
It has been several years since I sealed the roof, and it was fine for quite a while. I started getting leaks in the same place (see above post) again this year, but also noticed that the sealant across the sheet metal seam above the liftgate opening was cracking (probably due to vibration and expansion / shrinkage of the metal with temperature changes). This time I went nuts with the Rustoleum version of Flex-Seal and slathered it across the entire seam:
I know, that’s UGLY! But it does work. It is almost 99% leak free again. On very intense and long rainstorms there are a few drips from the center trim panel, so I probably will have to take the roof rack off again and reseal around the sidebar feet.
Rust-wise, I can’t see that it has gotten any worse. I encapsulated a bit of rust with the sealant the first time, and it has most likely grown a little, but nothing to make me worry.
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2008 Liberty Sport 4x4 Automatic
Jeepin By Al 4" Lift Kit
BFG KO2’s 245/75R16
Full MOPAR skid plates
Rock Lizard Skink Super Sliders
AtTheHelm Front Recovery System & Roof RackM116A3 Trailer build thread: viewtopic.php?f=72&t=77997