So I purchased my T4R with a Yakima Q-Tower Roof Rack attached (see here http://www.yakima.com/racks/rack-sys.../q-towers.aspx). Thing is, the previous owner had misplaced the keys and its stuck on my roof.
It gives pretty loud wind noise when on the freeway, and it appears that it has dented the roof and as a result some minor rust damage has occurred. I would like to try to press out the roof and do some at least primer painting on the damage.
Anyway, what I'm getting at is removing this rack myself. I know you can hire a lock smith to pick the locks, but I would really rather not have to pay for the service. Any ideas on how to remove the rack myself? or insight on how to pick the locks?
Shot in the dark, but its worth a try!
Thanks for your time!

If you arent worried about destroying the lock then a large blade bit in a cordless drill will work. Kinda what thieves use to get into cars. Another otion is just drilling the lock cylinder out. Don't know what to advise if you want to maintin the lock intact.

I'm with Pikeman, Time to bust out the drill!

The SKS locks should be like any other Yakima gear. What you can do is find someone who has the master key. All key sets come tih the lock key and a master key. The master key is used to put the lock in and into place on the towers. The master is the same for all SKS locks. It should be a goldish color. I sold all my stuff or I would let you use my old master. Let me know if you have problems finding one, i think my neighbor who has some of my old gear would be willing to let me use it and since you're in So Cal we can meet up to pop them out

If that is the case I have a Yakima Bile rack and pretty sure I have a silver and gold key for it. What part of So Cal?

Wow, that would be great. I live in the LA area, Gardena (90249) specifically. If it is a hassle don't worry about it. Maybe I could find a master key on ebay or something like that.

I was reading somewhere that the Master Key would only remove the lock when it is in the unlocked position. If this is case, might have to still bust out the drill.

another suggestion would be to stop by a bike shop or Sporting good like Sports Chalet and see if they have a Master key and can try for you. Just an idea since they obviously have open racks on display.

So you gonna sell it once you get it off??

Depends on if I can work out the dent and make the paint look somewhat reasonable. If not, I'll probably put the rack back on once I get the dent and minor rust taken care of.