1. Introduction
The MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads are designed to provide a versatile and secure solution for transporting various gear on your vehicle's roof, such as kayaks, surfboards, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and canoes. This system is compatible with vehicles both with and without gutters, offering a soft, protective, and easy-to-install alternative to traditional roof racks. Please read this manual carefully before installation and use to ensure safety and proper function.
Image 1.1: The MeeFar soft roof rack system is designed to carry various items including kayaks, surfboards, SUPs, canoes, and ladders.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all the following components are included in your package:
- 2 x Soft Roof Rack Pads
- 2 x 15FT Heavy Duty Tie Down Straps with padded cam locks
- 4 x 15FT Bow & Stern Tie Down Ropes
- 4 x Quick Loop Straps
- 1 x Storage Bag
Image 2.1: All components included in the MeeFar Soft Roof Rack Pads package.
3. Setup and Installation
No tools are required for the installation of the MeeFar Soft Roof Rack Pads. Follow these steps for a secure setup:
- Position the Soft Roof Rack Pads: Place the two soft roof rack pads on your vehicle's roof, ensuring they are spaced appropriately for the length of the item you intend to carry. The pads should be positioned over the strongest parts of your roof, typically near the front and rear doors.
- Secure the Pads to the Vehicle: Open all car doors. Take the 15FT Heavy Duty Tie Down Straps. Pass one strap through the interior of your car, over the first soft pad, and buckle it securely. Repeat this process for the second soft pad. Ensure the straps are tightened firmly to hold the pads in place. Close the doors carefully, making sure the straps are not pinched or damaged.
- Load Your Gear: Carefully place your kayak, surfboard, SUP, or canoe onto the secured soft roof rack pads.
- Secure the Load: Use additional 15FT Heavy Duty Tie Down Straps (if needed, not included in standard package for load securing) to firmly secure your gear to the soft pads. Ensure the load is centered and balanced.
- Utilize Bow & Stern Tie Down Ropes: For longer items like kayaks or canoes, use the 15FT Bow & Stern Tie Down Ropes. Attach one end to the front of your gear and the other to a secure point on the front of your vehicle (e.g., under the hood using quick loop straps). Repeat for the rear of your gear and vehicle. This prevents vertical and horizontal movement during transit.
- Use Quick Loop Straps: The Quick Loop Straps can be used to create secure attachment points under your vehicle's hood or trunk lid for the bow and stern ropes. Simply place the loop end under the hood/trunk and close it, leaving the other loop exposed for attachment.
- Final Check: Before driving, double-check all straps and ropes to ensure they are tight and secure. Gently shake the load to confirm there is no excessive movement.
Image 3.1: Proper placement of soft roof rack pads on a vehicle's roof.
Image 3.2: The 15FT Tie Down Straps are used to secure the pads to the car's roof.
Image 3.3: Bow and stern tie-down ropes provide additional security for long loads.
Image 3.4: Quick Loop Straps create convenient attachment points for bow and stern ropes.
4. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the MeeFar Soft Roof Rack Pads allow for safe transport of your gear. Adhere to the following guidelines:
- Load Capacity: The system is designed to hold up to 1-3 shortboards, 1-2 longboards, or kayaks, depending on their size and weight. Do not exceed the maximum load capacity of your vehicle's roof or the rack system.
- Regular Checks: During long journeys, stop periodically to check the tension of all straps and ropes. Adjust as necessary to maintain a secure hold.
- Driving Speed: Maintain appropriate driving speeds, especially in windy conditions or when carrying large items. Excessive speed can increase wind resistance and strain on the rack system.
- Wind Noise and Vibration: The soft materials and non-slip mat are designed to reduce wind noise and vibration. However, some noise is normal when carrying items on the roof.
5. Safety Guidelines
- Secure All Items: Always ensure all items are securely fastened to the roof rack pads and the vehicle using all provided straps and ropes. Loose items can cause accidents.
- Avoid Overtightening: While straps should be tight, avoid excessive force when tightening, as this can damage your vehicle's roof, the rack pads, or the items being carried.
- Door Seal Integrity: Be aware that running straps through door frames may compromise the door seal, potentially leading to water leakage into the vehicle during rain or car washes. Consider removing the rack during heavy rain or when not in use to prevent water entry.
- Clear Vision: Ensure that the loaded items do not obstruct your view or interfere with the safe operation of your vehicle.
- Height Clearance: Be mindful of the increased height of your vehicle with items on the roof, especially when entering garages, carports, or low-clearance areas.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your MeeFar Soft Roof Rack Pads:
- Cleaning: Clean the pads and straps with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before storing.
- Storage: When not in use, un-strap the pads and store them in the provided storage bag. This protects them from UV exposure, dirt, and wear, prolonging their lifespan.
- Inspect for Wear: Periodically inspect the pads, straps, and ropes for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Replace any damaged components immediately to ensure safety.
Image 6.1: The included storage bag for convenient storage of the soft roof rack pads.
7. Troubleshooting
- Issue: Load shifting during transit.
- Solution: Ensure all tie-down straps and bow/stern ropes are tightened sufficiently. The load should be centered and balanced on the pads. Re-check tension after driving a short distance.
- Issue: Water leakage into the car during rain.
- Solution: If the tie-down straps for the pads pass through the car's door frames, this can affect the door seal's integrity. This is a common characteristic of soft roof rack systems that do not use existing crossbars. Consider removing the rack during heavy rain or when not in use to prevent water entry.
- Issue: Excessive wind noise.
- Solution: Ensure the pads are positioned correctly and the load is streamlined as much as possible. Check that all straps are tight and not flapping. Some wind noise is inherent with any roof-mounted cargo.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | MF-SOFT-RAC-N |
| Material | 700D Nylon Fabric Exterior, EVA Foam Padded Interior Core, Built-in Non-slip Mat |
| Color | Black |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Mounting Type | Strap-based (no crossbars required) |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Universal Fit (vehicles with or without gutters) |
| Load Capacity | Up to 1-3 shortboards, 1-2 longboards, or kayaks (depending on size) |
Image 8.1: Detailed view of the durable materials and construction of the soft roof rack pads.
9. Warranty and Support
This MeeFar product comes with a 60-day manufacturer's warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
For warranty claims, technical support, or any questions regarding your MeeFar Universal Car Soft Roof Rack Pads, please contact MeeFar customer service through the retailer where you purchased the product or visit the official MeeFar website for contact information.