Roof Rack Maintenance
Easy Load Roof Rack
A maintenance routine for your Roof Rack system
Tools needed:
- 13mm (x2) & 10mm spanners
only one 13mm spanner supplied in tool kit - 5mm Allen key & extender bar (or a spanner works well too)
- Lubricant must contain PTFE or grease (chain spray is ideal)
- A rag and bottle brush to clean
If you keep the cradles on the vehicle roof, drop them down.
Using the Allen key & extender to check the cradle screws are secure.
You can use the ring end of one of the spanners.
We recommend threading the loading strap from the bottom (long side) to the top. Keeping the buckle end close to the cradle.
Plastic has a memory, keeping the straps tight helps to reform the older style cradles and can ease loading.
Check the nuts on the end on the “U” bolts which hold both the handles are good and tight.
Remember to do both handles or 3 if you have the extended handles on a high roof.
Loosen each lower bolt on the ‘Roller Head’.
Leave the higher bolt – make sure it is very tight.
Lubricate / grease both sides and the roller head and wheel to encourage smooth running.
Roller Head
- The ‘Roller Head’ is the triangular end section of your system
Next step is to grease the brass rollers in the ‘Roller Head’.
At the top of the Roller Head inside the aluminium slider casing the ‘Main Spar’.
There are 2 brass rollers in each Main Spar.
These rollers are the main pivot & runners. It is important these are kept lubricated.
When tightening the Roller Head bolts they need to be good and tight.
If loose the rack could become dislodged.
Make sure the bolts that hold the locking pins are tight but do not over-tighten.
It is possible to over-tighten which can make the rack stick a little.
It is worthwhile to give all nuts and bolts a grease.
If leaving the rack on your vehicle replace. Always give the bar a tug to ensure the locking pins are correctly positioned!
If taking the rack off you can store it until you need it.
Check rack and load are secure before driving off.
