How to Fit a Roof Top Box

Fitting a roof top box allows you to significantly increase your vehicle's cargo capacity, making road trips and holidays much easier. The process generally involves installing roof bars, positioning the box, securing it correctly, and finally, closing and locking it securely.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Your Roof Box

While specific steps may vary slightly depending on your vehicle's roof type, the roof bar system, and the design of your roof box, the fundamental process follows these stages:

1. Install Vehicle-Specific Roof Bars:

   • Ensure your vehicle is equipped with compatible roof bars or roof rails.
   • Follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely to fit the roof bars securely to your vehicle's roof. These provide the base for the box.

2. Position the Roof Box:

   • With the help of another person, carefully lift the roof box onto the installed roof bars.
   • Center the box on the bars, ensuring it is aligned correctly and does not interfere with the opening of the rear tailgate or extend too far forward causing visibility issues.

3. Secure the Box to the Roof Bars:

   • Roof boxes use various mounting systems to attach to the bars. Common types include:
     • U-Bolts: These loop around the roof bar and are secured inside the box with plates and nuts.
     • Quick-Release Clamps: Modern systems often feature integrated clamps that grip the roof bars from inside the box, tightened via dials or levers.
   • Following your roof box's instructions, attach the box securely to the bars at the designated mounting points. Ensure all fixings are tightened evenly according to the manual to avoid damaging the box or the bars.

4. Load the Box (Optional but Recommended Before Final Closure):

   • Distribute your cargo evenly inside the box, placing heavier items lower down and towards the center.
   • Do not exceed the roof box's maximum weight capacity or your vehicle's roof load limit. Use straps if necessary to prevent items from shifting during transit.

5. Close and Lock the Box Securely:

   • Once the box is attached and potentially loaded, it's time to close and lock it. Based on instructions similar to those seen for securing the cover:
     • Grab the strap under the roof box cover. This helps you pull the lid down.
     • Pull down to close the box lid firmly. Ensure the lid is properly seated along all edges.
     • Lock the Box. Insert your key and turn the lock mechanism. Many boxes have multiple locking points; ensure they all engage correctly. The lock often also acts as the latch mechanism.
     • Remove the key. It is crucial to remove the key before driving to avoid losing it and to ensure the box is actually locked.
     • Fold down the lock cover on the closure (if applicable). This protects the lock mechanism from dirt and weather.

Based on the reference provided: "Box grab the strap under the roof box cover. And pull down to close lock the Box remove the key and fold down the lock cover on the closure your roof box is now installed and ready to use."

After completing these steps, your roof box is now installed and ready to use.

Important Considerations

• Check Fixings Regularly: After driving a short distance, stop and re-check that the roof bar and roof box fixings are still tight. Repeat periodically on longer journeys.
• Weight Limits: Never exceed the maximum load rating for your roof bars, roof box, or vehicle roof.
• Height and Width: Be mindful of the added height and width of your vehicle, especially in car parks, garages, and drive-thrus.
• Driving Style: Adjust your driving to account for the added weight and wind resistance – accelerate and brake more gently, and take corners slower.

By following these steps and guidelines, you can fit your roof top box safely and effectively, expanding your vehicle's carrying capacity for your adventures.