1999 Subaru Forester Owner's Manual - Page 56

Luggage can be carried on the roof after securing the roof cross bar kit to the roof rail. When installing the roof cross bar kit on the roof rail, follow the manufacturer's instructions. When you carry cargo on the roof using the roof cross bar kit, never exceed maximum load limit explained below. You should also be careful that your vehicle does not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and front and rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). See the Loading Your Vehicle section in chapter 7 for information on loading cargo into or onto your vehicle. J When luggage is put on the slats When using the roof crossbar kit, make sure the total load capacity of the luggage on the slats of the roof cross bar kit does not exceed 100 lb. (45 kg). Overloading may cause damage to the roof and create a safety hazard. Place the heaviest load at the bottom, nearest the roof, and evenly distribute the luggage. Always secure the luggage with straps, ropes or nets. J Installing carrying attachments on the cross bars When installing any carrying attachment such as a bike carrier, ski carrier, kayak carrier, etc. on the cross bars, follow the manufacturer's instructions and make sure that the attachment is securely fixed to the cross bars. Use only attachments designed specifically for the crossbars. A set of the cross bars is designed to carry loads (luggage and attachment) of not more than 150 lb. (68 kg). Before operating the vehicle, make sure that the cargo is properly secured on the attachment. NOTE Remember that the vehicle's center of gravity is altered with the weight of the load on the roof, thus affecting driving characteristics. Drive carefully. Avoid rapid starts, hard cornering and abrupt stops. Crosswind effects will be increased. 1-30