​Types of Car Racks

There are various types of luggage rack available depending on your cargo carrying needs. Roof racks are the most common and allow you to transport items on the roof of your vehicle. They come in different styles like gutter mounted, bar mounted or foot pack mounted racks. Gutter mounted racks attach to the roof gutters alongside your car while bar mounted ones use aerodynamic bars attached to the roof. Foot pack racks mount directly onto the roof with rubberized foot packs for secure grip. Cargo carriers attached to roof racks are ideal for transporting bulky yet lightweight gear like skis, kayaks, bicycles, luggage etc.

Another option is a hitch mount rack that attaches to the receiver hitch of your vehicle. These are suitable for larger and heavier items like canoes, boats, furniture, appliances etc. Due to their location at the rear, hitch mount racks do not affect fuel efficiency as much as roof racks. Some vehicles also come equipped with roof rails onto which cross bars can be securely mounted to hold roof Car Racks or cargo boxes in place. For smaller cars, a rear mounted bike rack provides a practical solution to transport 1-2 bicycles without blocking rear visibility.

Factors to Consider

When buying a car rack, consider your vehicle type and cargo size/weight. Roof racks may exceed your vehicle's maximum roof load capacity so check specifications. The rack also needs to be made from high quality, weather resistant materials like aluminum or steel for durability and corrosion protection. An easy to use fitting mechanism with tightening components ensures secure installation every time. Additionally, look for safety features like lockable elements to prevent theft of expensive gear.

Aerodynamic designs minimize wind noise and increase fuel efficiency at high speeds. A streamlined shape combined with front and rear fairings helps deflect air smoothly over the rack and load. Adjustable rack components provide versatility for different cargo shapes and sizes. Multiple attachment points provide greater load distribution for heavy items. Compatibility with common roof rail systems is important if you change vehicles. Choose a reputable brand and check online reviews to ensure high product quality and reliability.

Loading and Car Racks

With the car rack securely fitted, you are ready to load your gear. Place heavier objects low and centered over the axle area to keep the overall center of gravity low. Avoid overloading as this can potentially destabilize your vehicle at high speeds. Sturdy rubber tie downs, straps and security cables help prevent any accidental loss or movement of cargo during travel.

For roof mounted items, use protective padding between racks and delicate surfaces like canoe bottoms. Face broad, flat surfaces into the wind flow to minimize drag. Organize smaller items neatly in roof top cargo boxes, baskets or netting straps. Avoid overhang beyond the vehicle perimeter for safety. Before driving off, visually inspect the entire rack assembly and loading from all angles to ensure nothing is loose.

Maintenance and Safety

Periodically check rack fittings, tighten fasteners and inspect components for signs of wear and stress cracks. Grease moving parts to prevent rust and smoothen action. Replace damaged components immediately.
 
be extra cautious during initial loading tests and limit speeds until confident with handling dynamics at maximum capacity. Obey legal roof rack height limits and reduce speed accordingly based on wind conditions and rack position. Consider a roof rack flag or lights for higher cross bars as an extra safety precaution. With the proper car rack selection and maintenance, you can transport your gear anywhere safely and securely.
 
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