ROOF RACKS AND LOAD
CARRIERS
WARNING
When loading the roof racks, we
recommend you evenly distribute the
load, as well as maintain a low
center of gravity. Loaded vehicles, with
higher centers of gravity, may handle
differently than unloaded vehicles. Take
extra precautions, such as slower speeds
and increased stopping distance, when
driving a heavily loaded vehicle. The maximum recommended load, evenly
distributed on the crossbars, is:
•
100 pounds (45 kilograms) for vehicles
without a moonroof
• 45 pounds (20 kilograms) for vehicles
with a moonroof.
Note: Never place loads directly on the roof
panel. The roof panel is not designed to
directly carry a load.
For correct roof rack system function, you
must place loads directly on crossbars
affixed to the roof rack side rails. When
using the roof rack system, we recommend
you use Ford Genuine Accessory crossbars
designed specifically for your vehicle.
Make sure that you securely fasten the
load. Check the tightness of the load
before driving and at each fuel stop. Adjusting the Crossbar (If Equipped)
Note: For less wind noise and better
aerodynamics, only install the crossbars
when you need them for carrying cargo. If
you prefer to keep the crossbars installed,
the front crossbar has two positions. The
front position is quieter for wind noise. The
rear position may help to reduce wind noise
from an open moonroof. Follow the steps
to reposition or remove the front crossbar.
You can remove the rear crossbar fasteners
by unscrewing the assembly. 1.
Remove the crossbar thumbwheels at
both sides of the front crossbar by
turning them counterclockwise.
Note: If you cannot loosen the thumbwheel
with your hand, loosen the fastener head.
You can also use a small screwdriver or
similar tool to loosen the thumbwheel by
inserting the shaft between the two paddles
of the thumbwheel and rotating it loose.
2. Remove the crossbar by sliding the ends off of the shoulder bolts in the
side rails.
3. Move the crossbar to the new side rail position and slide the crossbar onto
the shoulder bolt at that position.
4. Replace and tighten the thumbwheels
at both sides of the crossbar by turning
them clockwise until tight. You can use
a small screwdriver or similar tool to
tighten if necessary.
197
Escape/Kuga (TM2), enUSA, First Printing Load CarryingE142448
