The Ford Expedition, a renowned SUV for its spaciousness and capability, can become even more versatile with the addition of cross bars. Whether you're planning an epic road trip, hauling bulky cargo, or simply need extra carrying capacity, cross bars are an invaluable accessory. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing and installing the right cross bars for your Ford Expedition.
Understanding Ford Expedition Cross Bars: Types and Features
Before diving into specific products, let's understand the different types of cross bars available for your Expedition. Generally, you'll find two main categories:
1. Factory Cross Bars (OEM):
- Pros: Seamless integration with your vehicle's design, often offering a superior aesthetic and potentially a stronger build. Usually, these are engineered specifically for your Expedition model year, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Cons: Typically more expensive than aftermarket options. Availability might be limited depending on your Expedition's year and trim level.
2. Aftermarket Cross Bars:
- Pros: Wider range of choices in terms of materials, features, and price points. You can often find options that cater to specific needs, such as carrying heavier loads or offering aerodynamic designs for improved fuel efficiency.
- Cons: May require more research to ensure compatibility with your Expedition's roof rack system. The quality can vary significantly depending on the brand and manufacturing process.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Cross Bars
Selecting the right cross bars involves careful consideration of several factors:
1. Compatibility:
- Year and Model: Cross bars are model-specific. Ensure the bars you choose are explicitly designed for your Ford Expedition's year and trim level. Incorrectly sized bars can lead to installation difficulties or even damage to your vehicle.
- Roof Rack System: Your Expedition may have different types of roof rack systems (e.g., raised rails, flush rails, or no rails). The cross bars must be compatible with your existing setup. Check your owner's manual or the vehicle's specifications for details on the roof rack.
2. Load Capacity:
- Weight Limit: Consider the weight of the cargo you plan to carry. Each set of cross bars has a maximum weight capacity; exceeding this limit can be dangerous and void any warranty. Choose bars with a weight capacity that comfortably exceeds your anticipated load.
3. Material and Construction:
- Aluminum vs. Steel: Aluminum cross bars are generally lighter and less prone to rust, but might not be as durable as steel bars under heavy loads. Steel bars offer greater strength but can be heavier and more susceptible to corrosion.
- Construction Quality: Look for bars made of high-quality materials with robust construction. Check reviews to see how they hold up under real-world conditions.
4. Features:
- Aerodynamics: Aerodynamic cross bars are designed to minimize wind resistance, improving fuel efficiency. This is particularly beneficial for longer trips.
- Locking Mechanisms: Security features like locking mechanisms are crucial to deter theft.
Installation of Ford Expedition Cross Bars
While the specifics will vary slightly depending on the brand and model of cross bars, the general installation process usually involves these steps:
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Prepare your vehicle: Thoroughly clean the roof of your Expedition to ensure proper adhesion of any mounting components.
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Attach the feet: Carefully attach the feet of the cross bars to your vehicle's existing roof rack points. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific model.
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Position the crossbars: Securely place the crossbars onto the feet, ensuring they are correctly aligned and firmly locked in place.
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Tighten all fasteners: Double-check that all nuts, bolts, and clamps are firmly tightened to prevent movement while driving.
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Test the installation: Before loading any cargo, gently shake the crossbars to ensure they are stable and secure.
Conclusion
Choosing and installing the right cross bars for your Ford Expedition is a straightforward process when you understand the key factors involved. By carefully considering compatibility, load capacity, material, and features, you can ensure that your cross bars enhance your vehicle's versatility and provide safe and secure transport for your gear. Remember always to consult your owner’s manual and the cross bar manufacturer's instructions for specific details related to your vehicle and chosen products.
