1997 GMC Suburban Owner's Manual - Page 131

I~ggage Carrier (If Equipped) If you have the optional luggage carrier, you can load things on top of your vehicle. To prevent damage or loss of cargo as you're driving, check now and then to make sure the luggage carrier and cargo are still securely fastened. Be sure the cargo is properly loaded. The luggage carrier has slats and side rails attached to the roof, and crossrails which can be moved toward the front or the rear i n the side rails t o help secure cargo. Tie the load to the side rails or side rail supports. NOTICE: 0 If small heavy objects are placed on the roof, place the load i n the area over the rear wheels (behind the rear side door on Suburbans). If you need to, cut a piece of 3/8 inch plywood to fit inside the crossrails and side rails to spread the load. If plywood is used, tie it to the side rail supports. Tie the load to the crossrails or the side rail supports. Use the crossrails only to keep the load from sliding. 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 side rails or side rail supports. Also tie the load to the bumpers. Do not tie the load so tightly that the crossrails or siderails are damaged. After moving the crossrails, be sure to tighten all the slider screws. For the purpose of wind noise reduction. locate the front crossrail approximately 18-24 inches (46 cm to 58 cm) rearward of the front supports. Loading cargo that weighs more than lbs. 200 (90.6 kg) on the luggage carrier may damage your vehicle. When you carry large things, never let them hang over the rear the sides of your or vehicle. Load yourcargo 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. Don't exceed the maximum vehicle capacity when loading your vehicle. For more information on vehicle capacity and loading, see "Loading Your Vehicle" in the Index. 2-57