Rooftop cargo carrier

Barjrob1972 · Apr 23, 2018

I'm going to do a bit of work to the EL to make it more of an overland-type traveler. My list includes a 2000W power inverter, more 12V and USB ports (my EL is a XL) and a Weboost since I don't have a built-in 4G hotspot. Any suggestions on a rooftop cargo carrier? Searching is a bit overwhelming but it looks like staying with a name brand is probably the way to go, albeit costly. I'm also looking at the INNO as reviewed here.
https://www.etrailer.com/tv-review-inno-roof-cargo-carrier-2016-ford-expedition-inbra1250bk.aspx

ExplorerTom · Apr 23, 2018

I have a Thule cargo box. It's nice. I've had it for 12-13 years. It really only gets used for road trips and camping trips.

The one you posted looks low profile. Good for gas mileage. Bad for cargo. Me personally, I wouldn't go low profile since I'm usually stuffing mine full when I use it.

Bigbadbull · Apr 23, 2018

Ive got a mid sized Thule that I had left over from the '16 Explorer.
Works fine for long trips, just have to be carfule when its windy out side.

https://www.thule.com/en-us/us/cargo-carrier/car-top-carrier/thule-force-l-_-1688652

BoDarville · Apr 23, 2018

I've had this box for almost 10 years and it's been fantastic:
https://www.amazon.com/SportRack-Vi...1524520399&sr=8-1&keywords=sportrack+vista+xl

I agree with ExplorerTom - a low profile box really limits the type of cargo you can put in. This isn't as attractive as the Inno, but it sure gets the job done for a lot less $$$. I also like loading from the back on a truck as tall as ours - easier to stand on the bumper than to climb up from the sides if you don't want to bring a ladder.

Black · Apr 23, 2018

I have a SportRack brand that I have had for years and used it on 5 different vehicles now.
This is Thule’s economy line. The hardware is nowhere near as nice as the Thule models but it works just the same.
Never had any issues or water get in.
I have seen zero drop in gas mileage on any vehicle. 2 Explorers, Highlander, Pilot and a Sienna.
I bought it brand new on Craigslist for $50.
I have the Horizon XL model and fits a ton.
http://www.sportrack.com/p/horizon-xl-cargo-box?pp=24
Nowhere near as pretty a the Thule but does the same thing for far less money.
Worth every cent.
When I called the SportRack customer service number to order extra keys I was greeted by a young lady that said Thank you for contacting Thule customer service how may I help you?

Barjrob1972 · Apr 24, 2018

Black said:
I have a SportRack brand that I have had for years and used it on 5 different vehicles now.
This is Thule’s economy line.

I was looking at the SportRack brand as well and was going to do more research. It looks solid and the price is right.

Our carrier will be quasi-permanent mounted to start since our Expy is a weekender, at best, and long-hauler about twice a year.

Black · Apr 24, 2018

The biggest difference outside of price is they aren’t the super slick gloss look and the hardware is cheaper and not as easy to connect to the rails but they hold just as solid. Also only open on one side where most of the Thules can open from either side.
Most boxes require a minimum amount of weight to be in them so pay attention to that if you plan on keeping it attached most of the time. An empty box will put more pressure on the mounting points of the plastic.

Jimdar · Apr 24, 2018

Pepboys sells a rebranded sportrack for about $100 less. The direction sheet is Sportsrack and the pepboys sticker comes right off.
https://m.pepboys.com/product/details/9511536/00345?quantity=1#tab4

Barjrob1972 · Apr 24, 2018

Jimdar said:
Pepboys sells a rebranded sportrack for about $100 less. The direction sheet is Sportsrack and the pepboys sticker comes right off.
https://m.pepboys.com/product/details/9511536/00345?quantity=1#tab4

Well, dang. There is one right up the road from me and with tax and all I got it for $211. Thanks for the lead!

Barjrob1972 · Apr 24, 2018

Well it’s on. I’ll need to buy a two or three rung step ladder to take with me. It looks a little small even though it’s the XL but that works for me. It gives me a space in the rear to roof mount a couple of NMO’s for the cell booster and a dual band.
I also learned when I wash Moby Dick that I need to concentrate on the roof a bit more. There’s mold up there.

Rooftop cargo carrier

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