Ford Explorer Cross Bars / Roof Rack

[JDraper]

I have foam bumpers that protect my canoe. Mine are similar to these

 

[eh cam]

I got the whispbar https://www.racksolid.com/?s=s47&post_type=product
and from rack attack, the mighty mount 32H to permit yakima accessories works great on my sport

 

[fordmwei]

Crossbar

Hi guys

I just bot a 2014 Limited with 302A package +towing last weekend. While driving around with my colleagues, they mentioned that how come there is no crossbar on the rooftop rail.

Does anyone know if now crossbar an optional item I have to pay extra to have or I should just phone up my dealer?

Another frustration is that I just realized the front collusion warning system is no longer part of the 302a which I thought was there. Can this feature be added later with cost?

Thanks guys

Ming

 

[SWEET ST]

Yes the cross bar is extra, and the collision warning also is an extra option on the 2014 explorers.

 

[peterk9]

Hi guys

I just bot a 2014 Limited with 302A package +towing last weekend. While driving around with my colleagues, they mentioned that how come there is no crossbar on the rooftop rail.

Does anyone know if now crossbar an optional item I have to pay extra to have or I should just phone up my dealer?

Another frustration is that I just realized the front collusion warning system is no longer part of the 302a which I thought was there. Can this feature be added later with cost?

Thanks guys

Ming

Welcome to the Forum fordmwei.:wavey:
As per my PM (private message) to you, I have moved your post to this existing thread on the same topic.
I hope you enjoy your Limited as much as I have mine. Happy motoring.

Peter

 

[skripo]

The great roof rack search

I have read the discussions on this forum but am still undecided on which rack system to get. It essentially boils down to wind noise.

In the summer we tow a pop up with it's own roof rack and have no need for a supplemental roof rack, except for a longer once a summer trips. In the winter we ski and need a roof box for ski's and supplies.

I have not purchased the camper rack system yet because I want to match it with the car to keep accessories compatible but most brands have something available.

My first instinct is to go with the OEM crossbars because they are cost effective, look nice, and somewhat theft proof. Don't laugh, i had one disappear while skiing.

I intend to get a nice long box like the Yakima with the universal bar clamps. What I need to know is:

1) Do the OEM bars whistle or make noise?
2) Do you get enough clearance from the antenna? (I don't mind getting the shark fin one if it becomes available again).
3) Are they sturdy enough for that application?
4) If I go with an aftermarket mount can I easily remove the box and bars together?
5) Is there any other reason to go with aftermarket bars other than height and potentially easier removal?
6) If I were to go aftermarket, which system do you recommend?
7) Is it worth considering aftermarket bars to benefit from the mounting accessories? Ex: While camping I may need to put the kayak and canoe on the roof to drive to he river.
8) I am considering Thule, Sport Rack (Thule brand), or Yakima. Are there any other brands I should be considering?
9) Any comments on the above brands mount accessory range?
10) Are aftermarket aero blades worth it? I like the look but not sure about the function.

All opinions appreciated.

 

[gizmonic]

I love my Yakima rack. I did buy the front fairing and the rear little wing ( forget what it's called) to reduce wind noise. Once the rack is set to your rails it takes 5 minutes to take them off or on and the cross bars are very strong. I've had my crossbars for ten years now, only changing the mounts as i changed vehicles, and they have never bent. (lumber, Sheetrock,etc...) On the other hand, I have seen the factory bars on eBay for pretty cheap from time to time. Just my two cents...hope it helps

 

[peterk9]

I love my Yakima rack. I did buy the front fairing and the rear little wing ( forget what it's called) to reduce wind noise. Once the rack is set to your rails it takes 5 minutes to take them off or on and the cross bars are very strong. I've had my crossbars for ten years now, only changing the mounts as i changed vehicles, and they have never bent. (lumber, Sheetrock,etc...) On the other hand, I have seen the factory bars on eBay for pretty cheap from time to time. Just my two cents...hope it helps

Welcome to the Forum gizmonic.:wavey:

Peter

 

[GotSomeExploring]

Cargo Boxes and Cross Bars

Hello all!

I've had cars with roof racks/cross bars before - but never a cargo box.

I could get the OEM Crossbars and discount + Sears X-Cargo (they've been making some iteration of this for forever now) and been in ~$200.

Would I notice much of a difference in terms of security/road noise dropping more money for yakima/thule - or are they basically the same as no-name models out there with snake oil marketing? Can be a huge price difference.

Appreciate the feedback!

 

[peterk9]

Hello all!

I've had cars with roof racks/cross bars before - but never a cargo box.

I could get the OEM Crossbars and discount + Sears X-Cargo (they've been making some iteration of this for forever now) and been in ~$200.

Would I notice much of a difference in terms of security/road noise dropping more money for yakima/thule - or are they basically the same as no-name models out there with snake oil marketing? Can be a huge price difference.

Appreciate the feedback!

Welcome to the Forum:wavey:.
As indicated in my PM, I have moved your thread/post to this existing one. Perhaps you can find some info here that you can use.
You may also want to check out; http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=306407&highlight=cargo+box

Peter

 

[Levittown Ford Parts]

If anyone is looking for the OE crossbars we have them here at rock bottom pricing http://www.levittownfordsupercenter.com/ford-explorer-cross-bars-piece-p-286.html

Thanks,
Benny

 

[scotted73]

I have read the discussions on this forum but am still undecided on which rack system to get. It essentially boils down to wind noise.

In the summer we tow a pop up with it's own roof rack and have no need for a supplemental roof rack, except for a longer once a summer trips. In the winter we ski and need a roof box for ski's and supplies.

I have not purchased the camper rack system yet because I want to match it with the car to keep accessories compatible but most brands have something available.

My first instinct is to go with the OEM crossbars because they are cost effective, look nice, and somewhat theft proof. Don't laugh, i had one disappear while skiing.

I intend to get a nice long box like the Yakima with the universal bar clamps. What I need to know is:

1) Do the OEM bars whistle or make noise?
2) Do you get enough clearance from the antenna? (I don't mind getting the shark fin one if it becomes available again).
3) Are they sturdy enough for that application?
4) If I go with an aftermarket mount can I easily remove the box and bars together?
5) Is there any other reason to go with aftermarket bars other than height and potentially easier removal?
6) If I were to go aftermarket, which system do you recommend?
7) Is it worth considering aftermarket bars to benefit from the mounting accessories? Ex: While camping I may need to put the kayak and canoe on the roof to drive to he river.
8) I am considering Thule, Sport Rack (Thule brand), or Yakima. Are there any other brands I should be considering?
9) Any comments on the above brands mount accessory range?
10) Are aftermarket aero blades worth it? I like the look but not sure about the function.

All opinions appreciated.

I'll answer your questions as I am able to.

I'll begin by posting a link to another discussion about roof racks which has a picture of my Explorer with the OEM crossbars and a Yakima Skybox 16 (Post #20 ):

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=326643

1) I have not experienced any additional noise with the crossbars. I usually keep them slid back when not in use.
2)There is enough clearance to bring the back of a cargo box up to the antenna and without loss of signal. The picture I provided shows the Skybox mounted an inch from the antenna. I now use the Shark antenna.
3)On a move from Memphis to San Diego, the Skybox was fully loaded and it along with the crossbars did not have any issues. I did find that maxing out the spread of the bars along with the adjustments of the Skybox reduced any unwanted movements and created a more stable mount.
4)From Yakima it appears that the adapters for use of their racks are designed for easy removal. I would imagine that attempting to remove a box and crossbars together could make the process more difficult. The boxes aren't terribly heavy, but are large and can be unwieldy.
5)I stayed with the OEM crossbars to keep the height lower.
6)I've only used Yakima and am happy with their product.
7-10)No comments

 

[HawkEye19]

10) Are aftermarket aero blades worth it? I like the look but not sure about the function.

Yes. They reduce wind noise and MPG drop without having to install a faring.

 

[mctee]

'14 Ex Sport - Roof Set Up

Whispbar Cross bars with Thule Boxster roof box

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[mctee]

More detail:

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[beanieson]

roof rack cross bars

Just (like just now) brought home a 2016 XLE and I'm trying to get my Yakima bike rack on it by this weekend and the local dealers are telling me different things regarding the compatibility of the 2016 to available 2015 cross bars.

does anyone know for certain if the 2016 cross bars are the same as the 2011-2015? If so it looks like I could order these: http://www.amazon.com/Factory-Stock...pebp=1435096964903&perid=0VGXJMZXSKB0DGRV3CAE and save quite a bit.

thanks guys, I browsed around for a while but didn't see any threads concerning roof racks so I hope this is kosher

 

[peterk9]

Just (like just now) brought home a 2016 XLE and I'm trying to get my Yakima bike rack on it by this weekend and the local dealers are telling me different things regarding the compatibility of the 2016 to available 2015 cross bars.

does anyone know for certain if the 2016 cross bars are the same as the 2011-2015? If so it looks like I could order these: http://www.amazon.com/Factory-Stock...pebp=1435096964903&perid=0VGXJMZXSKB0DGRV3CAE and save quite a bit.

thanks guys, I browsed around for a while but didn't see any threads concerning roof racks so I hope this is kosher

Welcome to the Forum.:wavey:
Not very many members have the 2016 model. You can try contacting Benny at Levittown Ford Super Center to see if they can tell you. They are a site vendor; http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=196402
The link will allow you to send a PM (Private Message) to him. Just mention that you are a Forum member.

Peter

 

[cwescapexlt4x4]

The side bars are different (at least from the outside) so not sure if they are compatable for fit on the 2011-2015 to the 2016+

 

[peterk9]

The side bars are different (at least from the outside) so not sure if they are compatable for fit on the 2011-2015 to the 2016+

I'd read some posts that said that they looked different from pictures they saw. Thanks for confirming that.

Peter

 

[beanieson]

Thanks for the response guys, I did PM Benny and am waiting for him to get back to me. Later tonight I can post some pictures of the rails on our 2016 & maybe you guys can compare it?