2016 explorer panoramic roof and cross bar

[sport2016]

Hi. I was looking into buy the cross bar for my 16 explorer but i have the panoramic roof. Is that something i should do?

 

[peterk9]

Hi. I was looking into buy the cross bar for my 16 explorer but i have the panoramic roof. Is that something i should do?

You can install the crossbars. I had a 2017 Platinum with the moonroof and crossbars although I never used them. Keep the following in mind.

Also, this may be of interest. 2016 / 19 Explorer Roof Racks - Totally Different

Peter

 

[sport2016]

You can install the crossbars. I had a 2017 Platinum with the moonroof and crossbars although I never used them. Keep the following in mind.
View attachment 342364
Also, this may be of interest. 2016 / 19 Explorer Roof Racks - Totally Different

Peter

Thank you Peter.

 

[18ExplorerAA]

You can install the crossbars. I had a 2017 Platinum with the moonroof and crossbars although I never used them. Keep the following in mind.
View attachment 342364
Also, this may be of interest. 2016 / 19 Explorer Roof Racks - Totally Different

Peter

Is the maximum load here based on the manufacturers crossbars? Does installing aftermarket cross bars (Thule or Yakima) to the flush side rails help increase the maximum load capacity on the models with moonroofs?
45 lbs seems really little, and makes me question how weak the roof in general is.

 

[peterk9]

Is the maximum load here based on the manufacturers crossbars? Does installing aftermarket cross bars (Thule or Yakima) to the flush side rails help increase the maximum load capacity on the models with moonroofs?
45 lbs seems really little, and makes me question how weak the roof in general is.

Welcome to the Forum.
I don't believe the weight restrictions have anything to do with the ability of the crossbars or the roof to support the weight. I believe it has more to do with the vehicle's stability. The more weight you have on the top, the more 'top heavy' it becomes, affecting the stability of the vehicle, especially when turning. The weight of the moonroof is taken into account and results in a lower 'carrying weight'. Also, the weight will increase with speed as well.

Peter

 

[18ExplorerAA]

Welcome to the Forum.
I don't believe the weight restrictions have anything to do with the ability of the crossbars or the roof to support the weight. I believe it has more to do with the vehicle's stability. The more weight you have on the top, the more 'top heavy' it becomes, affecting the stability of the vehicle, especially when turning. The weight of the moonroof is taken into account and results in a lower 'carrying weight'. Also, the weight will increase with speed as well.
View attachment 426301
Peter

Thank you!

I haven’t seen anything regarding issues with roof rack systems and moonroofs elsewhere which is why I asked here. In fact many retailers have install videos showing them installing their roof racks and cargo boxes (those two have a combined weight over 45lbs) on Explorers with panoramic moonroofs.

 

[krazykarguy]

Is the maximum load here based on the manufacturers crossbars? Does installing aftermarket cross bars (Thule or Yakima) to the flush side rails help increase the maximum load capacity on the models with moonroofs?
45 lbs seems really little, and makes me question how weak the roof in general is.

Hi all -

I've used the Ford OEM cross bars on a '16 Platinum with a large Sears roofbox attached. Drove it 4000 miles this way, no issues. One 1000 mile trip with 3 17" rims and 3 suitcases up there, well in excess of the 45 lb maximum (which is stupidly low IMO).

It's your car and what you choose to do with it is your call - but I will continue to use these bars and that box on our Explorer.

The moonroof does not interfere with the bars, nor did the roof seem to have any trouble with the load.

 

[peterk9]

...........................................................
The moonroof does not interfere with the bars, nor did the roof seem to have any trouble with the load.

Welcome to the Forum.
I would think/hope that the roof is designed to withstand the weight of the vehicle in the event of a rollover.

Peter