Can a Rigthline Sport 3 XL Roof Cargo Bag be used on a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid with an OEM Roof Rack  

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Helpful Expert Reply:

The Rightline Sport 3XL Cargo Bag # RL100S30 will work on your 2008 Ford Escape roof. The optimal way to secure this cargo bag to your roof would be to use both the crossbars and the side rails with the included cargo loops.

If this cargo bag is a little too big for your existing cross bars I suggest having any overhang overlap the rear side to side cross bar. This would reduce the chance of the wind catching the underneath portion of the bag and causing damage while driving. If you have additional overlap it is also possible to run the securing straps through the inside of your Escape.

This material this bag is constructed of is rated as waterproof and the zipper design will definitely decrease the likelihood of any water entering the bag along the zipper but to ensure that your cargo is safe and dry I recommend a roof top cargo carrier.

A rooftop cargo carrier will work great with your existing factory roof rack system, would keep your cargo weather protected, be sturdier, and can be locked for an extra level of security. I have provided a link to the cargo boxes that we currently carry.

Of the cargo boxes that we carry for your application I recommend the SportRack Vista XL cargo Box # SR7018. This is a great cargo box, has 18 cubic feet of space for your cargo. The u-bolt style of attachment is compatible with your factory roof rack, requires a crossbar spread of 23-5/8, 25-7/8, 27-7/8, and 29-7/8 inches. The external length of this cargo box is 63 inches.

Please keep in mind that if you choose a cargo box you will want to select one that will not interfere with the rear hatch of your Escape when opening. I would suggest taking a measurement with your cross bars at the maximum spread and measure from the center of the front cross bar to the gate opening location on your Escape.

Either way if you are going to use a cargo bag or a cargo box you need to check your owners manual and verify what the roof weight capacity is of your Escape and make sure that you do not exceed it when carrying cargo on our roof.

For loading cargo into either your a rooftop cargo bag or box you might be interested in a wheel step like the HitchMate Tire Step # HE4040. This tire step folds for easy storage, is 22 inches wide, 10 inches deep, and has a weight capacity of 400 pounds.

I have included links to the parts referenced above, a helpful article regarding rooftop cargo management, and a couple of product videos for your reference.

expert reply by: Rachael H

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