I cast my vote for - keeping it in place ...

I do take it off when I wash ... I put a small O-ring on each screw and a bit of LaBelle grease on the threads and then screw them back in ... the O-rings are permanent ...

I put the grease on each time before I turn the hose on ... keeps water out of the rack tubes ...

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Pepper Kay
'01 XE 3 pack 4x4
auto - SWXC #39
Alpine Green