2003 Cadillac Escalade Owner's Manual - Page 137

Luggage Carrier You can load things on top of your vehicle with this feature. The luggage carrier has slats and siderails attached to the roof and crossrails which can be moved back and forth to help secure cargo. Tie the load to the siderails or siderail supports. Nofice: Loading cargo that weighs more than 200 Ibs. (91 kg) on the luggage carrier may damage your vehicle. When you carry large things, never let them hang overthe rear or the sides of your vehicle. Load your cargo so that it rests on the slats and does not scratch or damage the vehicle. Put the cargo against the side rails and fasten it securely to the luggage carrier. Put the main weight as far forward as you can. Be sure the cargo is properly loaded. If small heavy objects are placed on the roof, place the load in the area over the rear wheels (behind the rear side door on ESV models). If you need to, cut a piece of 3/8 inch plywood to fit inside the crossrails and siderails to spread the load. If plywood is used, tie it to the siderail supports. Tie the load to the crossrails or the siderail supports. Use the crossrails only to keep the load from sliding. To move the crossrails, loosen the release knob at each end. Slide the crossrail to the desired position balancing the force side to side. Tighten the release knobs and slide the crossrail back and forth slightly to be sure it is securely in place. If you need to carry long items, move the crossrails as far apart as they will go. Tie the load to the crossrails and the siderails or siderail supports. Do not tie the load so tightly that the crossrails or siderails are damaged. Don't exceed the maximum vehicle capacity when loading your vehicle. For more information on vehicle capacity and loading, see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-48. To prevent damage or loss of cargo as you're leaving, check now and then to make sure the luggage and cargo are still securely fastened. For the purpose of wind noise reduction, locate the front crossrail approximately 18 to 24 inches (46 to 58 cm) rearward of the front supports. After moving a crossrail, be sure it is securely locked into the siderail. 2-42