Will Rhino-Rack Roof Mounted Steel Cargo Basket RMCB02 Fit on 2014 Ford Explorer  

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The Rhino-Rack Roof Mounted Steel Cargo Basket # RMCB02 is intended as a universal-fit product that will work on a broad range of vehicles with either factory crossbars or an aftermarket roof rack. (The only absolute exception to the fit on crossbars is on the heavy-duty type from Rhino-Rack; most others will work.)

You can take a few quick measurements of your crossbars to confirm compatibility with the Rhino-Rack carrier. As long as your crossbar dimensions do not exceed 3-1/2-inches in width and 1-1/4-inches in height, and they are between 25- and 44-inches apart, then the universal hardware included with this cargo carrier will allow installation on your 2014 Explorer.

If your Explorer does not have side-to-side roof crossbars (only front-to-back side rails) you will need to install an aftermarket roof rack system in order to use the Rhino-Rack cargo carrier. Another option is to use a fabric-type cargo bag that can install directly on the vehicle roof without need for a roof rack.

The link provided will take you to our main page for all roof racks that will fit your 2014 Explorer. There are both basic round- and square-bar racks as well as advanced aerodynamic bar types available. In terms of compatibility with a broad range of rack-mount accessories (bike racks, kayak carriers, cargo baskets) the basic round and square crossbars are the best choice, although the aerodynamic type of crossbar will offer the quietest performance at highway speeds.

Please note that the Rhino-Rack basket # RMCB02 will mount to elliptical/aerodynamic crossbars.

If you wish to avoid the cost of a roof rack system you still have the option of using a soft fabric-type cargo bag. These offers several advantages: lower cost, much lower weight and the flexibility to install in several different ways. The link provided will take you to our page for all waterproof cargo bags that can mount to your Explorer. These range in size from 4-cubic-feet to 18-cubic-feet.

An excellent choice is the 18-cubic-foot Rightline, part # RL100S30. With any bag we suggest using Non-Skid Roof Protection Pad # RL100650 which will both help hold the bag in place on the roof and protect your paint finish from scratches. We also suggest always washing the vehicle roof before installing the pad and bag to protect the paint from abrasion from trapped dirt.

With either option, metal basket or fabric bag, you will want to check your owners manual to verify the vehicle roof weight-bearing capacity before loading up your cargo. The vehicle manufacturer weight limit must be observed and that limit must include both the weight of the carrier you choose plus what you load into it.

expert reply by: Adam R

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