Ratchet Straps Are Not Recommended For Rightline Gear Carriers
Occasionally we’ll hear that someone has used ratchet straps to secure their Rightline Gear Car Top Carrier, either because they felt the straps we provided weren’t sufficient, or because they felt it was prudent to be extra cautious.
Certainly we want you to do what makes you feel safe and secure, but there are a few things to consider before using ratchet straps along with or instead of the carrier’s standard straps.
The Rightline Gear carrier straps are specifically designed to work with our carriers in both ease of use and in strength. They have been tested to ensure that they will keep your carrier secured to your vehicle. We cannot make the same claims regarding another manufacturer’s ratchet straps.
In addition, the metal fastener of a ratchet strap can be abrasive to the car top carrier material. We have definitely seen holes in carriers that were caused by ratchet straps. Using a ratchet strap will void our warranty, leaving you without recourse if your carrier becomes damaged.
If you are having trouble keeping the Rightline Gear straps tight over you carrier, chances are the straps are improperly threaded. Please review your carrier set up guide and contact us with any remaining questions.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to
William Sanderson
Hello. I have a roof rack with crossbars. My Sport 3 is 48×36. My crossbars on their longest settings are 40 inches. Shorter setting is 30 inches. Do you recommend removing the crossbars altogether and just using side rails, or put the carrier on top of the crossbars. Thank you.
RightlineG
Hi William. Thanks for writing into our blog. We don’t recommend placing our Car Top Carriers on top of a vehicle’s crossbars, it may cause the bag to flap excessively in the wind and cause damage. We do recommend removing the crossbars, or even just the rear bar in order for the Sport 3 to sit flat on your roof. You are correct, using the side rails to attach the straps will be the best way to install. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to give us a call at 888.685.GEAR.
Georgina Vega
I would like to purchase extra straps for my rightline gear car top carrier, where can I purchase them??
admin
Hello. Replacement straps can be purchased directly from us if you can please contact our customer service team at 888.685.GEAR.
Brad Downs
What is the load capacity (# of pounds) for the Rightline Gear Sport 3?
Loran Evans
Hi Brad-
The Car Top Carriers don’t have a load capacity as such because the determining factor will be your vehicle’s roof or its luggage rack. The carrier itself will hold far more weight than these two parts of your vehicle will handle. Please check with your dealer for the load information of the vehicle.