Driving 4WDs is fun, especially when going out on a road trip or camping adventure. They can go on different terrains and enable you to access various sites. However, they may not have an enormous capacity to accommodate all your luggage; hence you need extra space. Due to this shortcoming, they are designed to offer a luggage capacity solution by allowing you to mount a roof rack for additional items.
Most people use roof racks to carry items necessary for camping and adventures; hence you should focus on the racks that will serve you in all terrains. The ability of the roof rack to operate on different landscape depends on various factors that you must consider when purchasing one.
Types of roof racks
Baskets
These roof racks are basket-shaped and have wire mesh making them suitable for carrying smaller cargo. They have metal bases and sides and are ideal for less bulky items. They need special attachments such as crossbars to hold them in position.
Trays
These are ideal for campers or those who love outdoor adventures. They are similar to baskets, but they do not have wire mesh. They are suitable for carrying things like tents and bags or other accessories.
Cargo Carriers
These roof racks are meant to transport cargo such as boats. The cargo roof rack can be suitable for carrying other sports gear such as bikes, kayaks, and many more. They also have strong anchors on the sides to ensure you tie the cargo in position and prevent it from drifting while driving.
Factors to Consider When Buying a 4WD Roof Rack
Weight
When getting the roof rack, the first consideration should be the weight of the roof rack. This is essential to ensure it does not add additional weight to the car, especially when driving uneven terrain. The weight of the roof rack will also depend on the type of materials used.
It is also crucial in determining how balanced the car will be on the road and the stability as you drive through different terrains. While focusing on the roof rack, you also need to consider the legal weight of a loaded car. If the rack is too heavy, it will limit the cargo you can load on the car due to weight restrictions.
Mounting position
The ideal location of the roof rack should be at the center of the car’s roof. It should not be at the front or overextended to the back. The central location contributes to the car’s center of gravity, enabling you to load more on the cargo roof rack without worrying about the vehicle tilting forward or backward due to unbalanced weight.
If you extend or place the roof rack towards the front of the car, you will have to increase the fuel usage due to the impacts of the wind and the resistance as you drive. If you locate it too much at the rear, you have to deal with the challenge of the rear axle capacity; hence the center is the best option.
The type and size of roof rack
There are different types and sizes of roof racks. The ideal size should depend on the capacity of your car. You should also purchase one that can accommodate your luggage and not look conspicuous. The type of roof rack also depends on the cargo you need to carry. Sports items such as snowboards, ski boards, bikes will be suited for a rail roof rack. Bags, tents, camping chairs will require a basket roof rack so that you can anchor them well and guard them against falling as you drive.
While considering the size of the roof rack, you should also monitor the height. If the rack is too high, you increase the wind resistance making it difficult for the car to hit top speed, and you will have to use more fuel. You need to keep them low because they also affect the center of gravity, exceptionally when high.
Need for anchorage
You must tie anything you load on the roof rack; you need to consider the rack that will enable you to secure your cargo. If you do not need an edged roof rack, ensure they have hooks or holes to pass the ropes to anchor the items. Alternatively, you can buy roof racks suited for particular items. If you only carry sports gear, you can get roof racks designed to anchor such things.
Materials
The materials used to make the roof rack determine its weight, durability, and the cargo it can carry. Aluminum roof racks are light, but they cannot effectively handle bulky cargo. Aluminum is durable and can survive in various conditions without issues of rust.
Steel roof racks are heavy, durable, can accommodate oversized cargo; however, they can be vulnerable to rust, especially in humid and salty areas. You need to paint them frequently to prevent them from rusting. Whether you buy an aluminum or steel roof rack, you need a good paint job to provide an additional protective coating to ensure they last longer.
Mounting attachments
Most cars are manufactured without considering roof rack attachments; hence it is up to you to ensure you have the attachments to anchor them safely on the car’s roof. If the car does not have any room for attachments, you should consider buying some. You also need to ensure the attachments are suitable for different types of roads, including rough terrains, to avoid accidents of the rack falling while you drive.
Different roof rack attachments include raised side slides, flush side rails, naked roofs, and fixpoints. The type of rack you buy will require either of these systems; hence, you must select carefully.
Bottom-line
Roof racks can affect your car’s looks and beauty; hence, a good roof rack should be unique and straightforward. It should meet your needs, such as the volume and the type of cargo you need to carry. You can also consider factors such as its weight, height, durability, and materials. Ensure you seek the help of an expert to install the roof to avoid any future accidents.