jeeden
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- July 25, 2000
- Messages
- 289
- Reaction score
- 2
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 2011 Ford Explorer
Earlier this summer there were a couple of threads about cargo boxes, which ones to buy, how they install, how to store, etc. I contributed to the threads, but mentioned I would try to provide more information when I next used mine. We didn't wind up going to OBX this summer, but we are about to go skiing (finally! stupid weather) and this was my first opportunity to install our cargo box that we previously ran on our 2007 explorer, on our 2011 explorer.
I'm not going to go crazy with the text hear, if you see something you have an interest in, ask and I'm happy to answer questions.
The box:
The box we use is the Yakima Lo-Pro (low profile) 15. We purchased it from REI about 3 years ago (good prices and free shipping to local store). It includes universal claw clamps (that can handle factory, square, or round bars), a cargo net, solar LED light, locking handles on both sides, can open from both sides. When clamped, there is at least 1.5 inches of clearance between the clamps and the roof. Under heavy box load, this may drop to 1 inch.
A similar box (they are always changing model numbers) at the Yakima site: http://www.yakima.com/shop/cargo/skybox-series/skybox-lopro-new!
The Explorer:
2011 Ford Explorer Limited Edition with factory siderails and crossbars. Dual Sunroof.
The Stuff:
Just for an example on size, in the past it has comfortably held the following:
- 5 pairs of skis up to 174s, 2 snowboards and all sets of ski boots
- Pack n play, 3 boogie boards, couple of dry bags, 5 bag chairs
- 3 pullman suitcases (14 inch carry on size)
- I'm sure I have had it close to the max crossrail weight of 150lbs before.
It is not close to the largest box offered by Yakima or Thule, but it is nearly the same footprint, just not as tall. I prefer the lo pro for the gas mileage, parking in the garage, etc.
Storage:
I store the box by hanging it from the top of my garage. A portion of my garage has 10ft ceilings so I pull the explorer in, pop the claws on the box, wrap two straps around the box, connect them to pulleys with beaners and hoist away. I got fancy and routed the rope through eye hooks and beaners to guide it to the wall. I have used standard pulleys and rope here, but for kayaks and canoes in the garage I have since used the "rad" pulley system and have been very happy. It is simplier and cheaper than buying rope and pulleys. Here is a link to the 100lb system (they have 25/50lb systems too): http://www.amazon.com/RAD-Cycle-Storage-Capacity-Mountain/dp/B003TFOPJA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1326568435&sr=8-3
I have used pipe insulation and tie wraps around springs, door tracks, and the garage door opener arm to avoid any damage to the box when putting it on or off the explorer. I cut down the opener arm a little to make sure it clears the box when opening the door (there was excess for other door types). I am able to back the explorer out of the standard garage door opening with about 1 inch to spare on normal tire pressure and empty loading in the explorer. With heavier loading, the gap is larger.
Time for some photos. I have been very happy with the system on my 2007 explorer and expect the same for the 2011. I highly recommend the factory bars for noise and looks.
Any questions, please fire away...
I'm not going to go crazy with the text hear, if you see something you have an interest in, ask and I'm happy to answer questions.
The box:
The box we use is the Yakima Lo-Pro (low profile) 15. We purchased it from REI about 3 years ago (good prices and free shipping to local store). It includes universal claw clamps (that can handle factory, square, or round bars), a cargo net, solar LED light, locking handles on both sides, can open from both sides. When clamped, there is at least 1.5 inches of clearance between the clamps and the roof. Under heavy box load, this may drop to 1 inch.
A similar box (they are always changing model numbers) at the Yakima site: http://www.yakima.com/shop/cargo/skybox-series/skybox-lopro-new!
The Explorer:
2011 Ford Explorer Limited Edition with factory siderails and crossbars. Dual Sunroof.
The Stuff:
Just for an example on size, in the past it has comfortably held the following:
- 5 pairs of skis up to 174s, 2 snowboards and all sets of ski boots
- Pack n play, 3 boogie boards, couple of dry bags, 5 bag chairs
- 3 pullman suitcases (14 inch carry on size)
- I'm sure I have had it close to the max crossrail weight of 150lbs before.
It is not close to the largest box offered by Yakima or Thule, but it is nearly the same footprint, just not as tall. I prefer the lo pro for the gas mileage, parking in the garage, etc.
Storage:
I store the box by hanging it from the top of my garage. A portion of my garage has 10ft ceilings so I pull the explorer in, pop the claws on the box, wrap two straps around the box, connect them to pulleys with beaners and hoist away. I got fancy and routed the rope through eye hooks and beaners to guide it to the wall. I have used standard pulleys and rope here, but for kayaks and canoes in the garage I have since used the "rad" pulley system and have been very happy. It is simplier and cheaper than buying rope and pulleys. Here is a link to the 100lb system (they have 25/50lb systems too): http://www.amazon.com/RAD-Cycle-Storage-Capacity-Mountain/dp/B003TFOPJA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1326568435&sr=8-3
I have used pipe insulation and tie wraps around springs, door tracks, and the garage door opener arm to avoid any damage to the box when putting it on or off the explorer. I cut down the opener arm a little to make sure it clears the box when opening the door (there was excess for other door types). I am able to back the explorer out of the standard garage door opening with about 1 inch to spare on normal tire pressure and empty loading in the explorer. With heavier loading, the gap is larger.
Time for some photos. I have been very happy with the system on my 2007 explorer and expect the same for the 2011. I highly recommend the factory bars for noise and looks.
Any questions, please fire away...