Travel and Leisure

Vehicle occupants should be comfortable at all times especially during long-distance travels. So, your goal is to get rid of all unnecessary stuff inside your car and place these inside the compartment. However, bulky items such as camping equipment and sports gear need a larger space. This is the main reason for acquiring roof racks which can be installed on top of automobile roofs. Storage containers come in various materials, dimensions and structures. Make sure that you get the appropriate rack for your car.

Once you have bought your roof rack, the next step is to install the mechanism. One option is to hire a professional which entails extra cost while the other is the DIY method. The second alternative is advisable for car owners on a budget. Here are basic steps that you can follow in mounting your vehicle holder:

• Assemble the bracket and make sure that the joints are fastened correctly and firmly. Each support is distinct so follow the directions that come with the product. You can use a screwdriver with flat head and screw the side banisters and cross bars.
• Put the carrier on top of the car and take the appropriate measurements to ensure that it is placed in the roof's center. Use a tape measure so the alignment will be accurate.
• You can now bore the holes after removing the rack prior to mounting it permanently. It will help if you get a factory-manufactured template in the form of pre-drilled holes. These can be fixed at the edge of the bar so you can make a hole using an electric drill.
• Return the rack and secure the screws making sure that there are equal spaces in both sides.

Check the maximum allowable load capacity indicated in the installation guide and your car owner's manual. Avoid going beyond the designate weight and size. Refrain from placing very heavy load since this can cause damage to your vehicle. You will only need the bars in case your automobile has been mounted with roof rails. Cars without roof railings will require the fitting kit that can be attached to the clamps at the upper frames of the frontal and rear door jambs.

Consult your rack supplier for advice and tips in case you choose the do-it-yourself method in setting up the car roof rack. Opt for the reputable sellers and research before you purchase the rack from the car accessory supply outlet.