BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars are designed to expand your vehicle's cargo capacity, allowing for the transport of various items such as roof bags, cargo boxes, bikes, kayaks, and more. Constructed from high-grade aluminum, these cross bars offer a lightweight yet durable solution for your hauling needs. They feature an aerodynamic design to minimize wind resistance and noise.

Image: BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars shown installed on a Toyota RAV4, highlighting their sleek design and integration with the vehicle's roof rails.

Image: Diagram illustrating the aerodynamic streamline design of the cross bars, engineered to reduce wind resistance and air noise during travel.

Key Features:

• Compatibility: Specifically designed for Toyota RAV4 models from 2013-2018, including XLE, LIMITED, LE, SE, PLATINUM, ADVENTURE, and HYBRID editions. Requires existing side rails on the vehicle.
• Secure & Durable: Features upgraded locks and high-grade aluminum with plastic base feet. Aluminum is lighter than steel, yet provides significant strength.
• High Load Capacity: Capable of carrying up to 68 kg (150 lbs), suitable for various cargo types.
• Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward installation without drilling.
• Sunroof Clearance: Engineered to provide wide clearance, ensuring it does not impede the operation of the sunroof.

2. Safety Information

• Always ensure cross bars are securely fastened before driving.
• Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of 68 kg (150 lbs). Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for its specific roof load limit, and never exceed the lower of the two limits.
• Distribute cargo weight evenly across the cross bars.
• Check all fasteners and connections periodically, especially after the first few miles of driving with cargo, and regularly thereafter.
• Avoid sudden maneuvers, braking, or acceleration when carrying cargo on the roof.
• Be aware of increased vehicle height and potential wind resistance when driving with cargo.
• Ensure all cargo is properly secured to prevent shifting or detachment during transit.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:

• Front Cross Bar (Longer) - 1 unit
• Rear Cross Bar (Shorter) - 1 unit
• Installation Manual - 1 copy
• Allen Wrench - 1 unit
• Keys - 2 units

Image: Visual representation of the package contents, including the front and rear cross bars, installation manual, Allen wrench, and keys.

4. Setup and Installation

Follow these steps for proper installation. It is recommended to have two people for easier installation, though it can be done by one person.

4.1 Identify Front and Rear Bars

The front cross bar is longer than the rear cross bar. Each bar is also marked "FRONT" or "REAR" and has an arrow indicating the direction towards the front of the vehicle. The rounder side of the cross bar faces the front, and the pointy side faces the rear for optimal aerodynamics.

Image: Close-up of the "FRONT" and "REAR" labels on the cross bars, indicating their correct placement.

Image: Diagram illustrating the correct orientation of the cross bars, with the round side facing the front of the car and the pointy side facing the rear.

4.2 Installation Steps

1. Unlock and Remove Cover: Use the provided key to unlock the end caps of the cross bars. Gently remove the plastic cover to expose the adjustment screws.
   

   Image: Detail of the lock mechanism, showing where to insert the key to unlock and remove the cover.

2. Loosen Adjustment Screws: Using the Allen wrench, loosen the screws located on the underside of the cross bar ends. These screws allow the base to slide for adjustment. DO NOT REMOVE THE BOLTS.
   

   Image: Illustration of the adjustment screws on the cross bar ends, allowing for a wide adjustment range to fit different vehicle widths.
3. Position on Roof Rails: Place the cross bar onto your vehicle's existing side rails. Ensure the lower clamp swings into position under the side rail. The front crossbar is typically positioned slightly forward of the rear one.
   

   Image: Comparison showing a Toyota RAV4 with factory-installed side rails (compatible) and a vehicle without side rails (incompatible), emphasizing the requirement for existing side rails.

4. Adjust and Tighten: Adjust the length of the cross bar by sliding the base until it fits snugly against your vehicle's side rails. Once the desired length is achieved, tighten the adjustment screws firmly with the Allen wrench to secure the base.
   Play video

   Video: Demonstrates the process of loosening screws for adjustment, placing the cross bar on the roof rails, adjusting the length, and tightening the screws to secure the base. This video is titled "Cross Bars for 2013-2018 Toyota Rav4" and is provided by BougeRV.

   Play video

   Video: Detailed installation guide for BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars, showing the steps to adjust and secure the bars onto the vehicle's roof rails. This video is titled "Installation for BougeRV Roof Rack Cross Bars" and is provided by BougeRV.
5. Replace Cover and Lock: Once the cross bar is securely tightened, replace the plastic cover over the adjustment screws. Insert the key and turn to lock the cover in place. This provides security and a finished look.

Repeat the process for the second cross bar. Ensure both bars are parallel and correctly oriented (front bar longer, rear bar shorter, and both facing the correct direction).

Image: View of the installed cross bars on a vehicle with a sunroof, demonstrating the wide clearance that prevents interference with sunroof operation.

5. Operating Instructions

Once installed, the BougeRV cross bars are ready for use. Always adhere to the following guidelines:

• Loading Cargo: When loading items, distribute weight as evenly as possible between the two cross bars and across the width of the bars.
• Securing Cargo: Use appropriate tie-downs, straps, or cargo nets to securely fasten all items to the cross bars. Ensure there is no movement or shifting of cargo before driving.
• Driving with Cargo: Adjust your driving style to account for the added weight and altered aerodynamics. Reduce speed, especially in windy conditions or when cornering.
• Height Clearance: Be mindful of overhead clearances, such as low bridges, garage entrances, and drive-thrus, as the height of your vehicle will increase with cargo on the roof.

Image: A Toyota RAV4 equipped with BougeRV roof rack cross bars, demonstrating its 150 lbs (68 kg) load capacity by carrying a kayak, suitable for various outdoor gear.

6. Maintenance

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the cross bars for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Check all mounting points and fasteners for tightness.
• Cleaning: Clean the cross bars with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.
• Lubrication: If the locking mechanism becomes stiff, apply a small amount of graphite lubricant to the keyhole.
• Storage: If not in use for extended periods, consider removing the cross bars and storing them in a dry, protected area to prolong their lifespan.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the official BougeRV website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Important Note: Please double-check the package box when you open it to see if the instructions and key are stuck to the bottom of the box. If not, please contact BougeRV customer service for replacements.

You can also find additional resources and product information on the BougeRV Store on Amazon.

An installation manual in PDF format is also available: Installation Manual (PDF)