2009 Ford Explorer Owner Guide 2nd Printing (Spanish) - Page 603

Driver Controls To adjust cross-bar position (if equipped): 1. Loosen the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar (If the thumbwheel is too tight to release by hand, a small screwdriver or similar device can be used to release the torque by inserting the shaft into the tie-down loop and twisting the thumbwheel counterclockwise). Both cross-bars are adjustable. 2. Slide the cross-bar to the desired location. 3. Firmly retighten the thumbwheel at both ends of the cross-bar. Be sure to check that the thumbwheels are tight each time load is added or removed from the roof rack, and periodically while traveling. Always ensure that the load is secure before traveling. Note: When the cross-bars are not in use, they can either be removed or adjusted so that the rear crossbar is fully rearward, and the front crossbar is 10 inches from the front end-cap to decrease wind noise. Ford Motor Company recommends loading the roof rack only when equipped with (optional) crossbars, to avoid unintended damage to the roof panel. WARNING: Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity, may handle differently than unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions, such as slower speeds and increased stopping distance, should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle. WARNING: Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four-wheel drive vehicles handle differently than vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sport cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cautiously could result in an increase risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury and death. 153 2009 Explorer (exp) Owners Guide, 2nd Printing USA (fus)