1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and correct installation, operation, and maintenance of your Thule 951000 Guttered Footpack 15cm. This footpack is designed for vehicles equipped with rain gutters and a raised roof, providing a secure foundation for Thule square load bars. Thule products are developed with rigorous testing to ensure ease of use and high safety standards.
2. Safety Information
- Always read and understand all instructions before installation and use.
- Ensure all components are securely fastened before driving. Regularly check the tightness of all bolts and knobs, especially during long journeys or after driving on rough terrain.
- Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of 100 kg (220.5 lbs) for the footpack system. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for its specific roof load capacity, and always use the lower of the two limits.
- Distribute the load evenly on the roof bars.
- Adjust driving speed to suit the load being carried and road conditions. Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, or sharp turns.
- Be aware of increased vehicle height and width when carrying loads, especially when entering garages, car washes, or low-clearance areas.
- Remove the footpack and load bars when not in use to improve fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise.
3. Package Contents
The Thule 951000 Guttered Footpack package typically includes:
- 4 x Thule 951000 Guttered Footpacks
- Quick access interface components (knobs, clamps)
- Instruction manual (this document)
Note: A complete roof bar system requires the specialized footpack, vehicle-specific fitting kits (if applicable), and load carrier bars (e.g., Thule square bars), which are sold separately.
4. Setup and Installation
The Thule 951000 Guttered Footpack is designed for easy, tool-free installation on vehicles with rain gutters.
4.1. Component Overview
Figure 1: A single Thule 951000 Guttered Footpack, showing the main body and the adjustment knob for securing it to the rain gutter.
4.2. Installation Steps
- Prepare the Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle's rain gutters are clean and free from debris.
- Attach Footpacks to Load Bars: Slide the Thule 951000 footpacks onto your Thule square load bars. Ensure they are correctly oriented and spaced according to your vehicle's roof width and the load bar instructions.
- Position on Rain Gutters: Carefully place the assembled load bars with footpacks onto the vehicle's rain gutters. Position them at the desired locations, typically equidistant from the front and rear of the roof, or as specified by your vehicle's manual.
- Secure the Footpacks: For each footpack, engage the clamping mechanism with the rain gutter. Tighten the adjustment knob (as shown in Figure 1) firmly by hand until the footpack is securely clamped to the gutter. Do not overtighten.
- Verify Security: After tightening all four footpacks, gently push and pull on the load bars to ensure they are firmly attached and do not move. Re-tighten if any movement is detected.
Figure 2: Thule Guttered Footpacks installed on a vehicle's rain gutters, supporting two square load bars. This illustrates a complete roof rack setup.
5. Operation
Once installed, the Thule 951000 Guttered Footpack provides a stable base for carrying various loads on your vehicle's roof, in conjunction with appropriate Thule load bars and accessories.
- Load Capacity: The maximum load capacity for the footpack system is 100 kg (220.5 lbs). Always adhere to this limit and your vehicle's manufacturer-specified roof load limit, using the lower of the two.
- Securing Loads: Use appropriate Thule accessories (e.g., cargo boxes, bike carriers, ski carriers) and tie-down straps to secure your load to the square bars. Ensure the load is centered and balanced.
- Regular Checks: Periodically check the tightness of the footpack attachment knobs and the security of your load during transit.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Clean the footpacks regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the footpacks for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Ensure all moving parts operate smoothly.
- Lubrication: Lightly lubricate threads of adjustment knobs if they become stiff.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, it is recommended to remove the footpack system from your vehicle and store it in a dry, protected area.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Footpack feels loose after installation. | Adjustment knob not tightened sufficiently. | Re-tighten the adjustment knob firmly by hand. Ensure the clamping mechanism is properly engaged with the rain gutter. |
| Excessive wind noise. | Improper load bar positioning or empty roof rack. | Ensure load bars are correctly positioned. Consider removing the roof rack when not in use. Check for any loose components. |
| Difficulty tightening adjustment knob. | Debris in threads or corrosion. | Clean threads and apply a small amount of lubricant. Ensure the footpack is correctly aligned with the rain gutter. |
If you encounter issues not listed here, please refer to the Thule support website or contact customer service.
8. Specifications
- Model: Thule 951000 Guttered Footpack 15cm
- Brand: Thule
- Load Capacity: 100 kg (220.5 lbs)
- Mounting Type: Roof Bar (for rain gutters)
- Compatible Bars: Thule Square Bars
- Item Dimensions (L x W x H): 15.75 x 7.09 x 3.35 inches
- Item Weight: 5.94 pounds
- Manufacturer Part Number: 951000
- GTIN: 07313021060117
9. Warranty and Support
All Thule products come with a 5-year warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. For warranty claims or technical support, please visit the official Thule website or contact their customer service department.
