Many motorists face a situation when the regular volume of the trunk ceases to be enough for the transportation of bulky cargo, sports equipment or tourist equipment. At this point, a natural question arises: what is the name of the additional device attached to the top, and how does it differ from other accessories? In everyday life you can hear many names: kofr, boxing, basket, expeditionary. However, the technically competent name depends on the specific design and method of attachment.
First of all, it is necessary to distinguish luggage-board (cross-bars with supports) and directly cargo-capacityThe one that's set on it. If you are looking for a hard closed container, it is a boxer or kosher. If it is an open-ended structure, then it is luggage-basket or expedition-car. Understanding these differences is critical when looking for parts or accessories, as their mounting and aerodynamic properties are radically different.
In this article, we will discuss in detail how the different types of overhead luggage equipment are correctly named, what features they have and what to choose for your car. We will look at the technical nuances so that you can confidently communicate with sellers in the store and choose the best solution for your needs.
Basic terminology: crossbars and railings
Before proceeding to the containers themselves for cargo, it is necessary to understand the basis on which they are attached. The foundation of any top trunk system is cross-section (or arcs). They are across the car body connect the left and right sides of the roof, creating a platform for the installation of a box or basket. Without them, the installation of most cargo is impossible if there are no regular integrated seats on the roof.
Often on the roofs of modern cars you can see longitudinal elements running along the body. They're called railing (from English) rail to rail. Railings can be functional (have holes for mounting crossbars) or decorative. It is important not to confuse them: the railing is a longitudinal guide, and the crossbar is a removable or stationary element that is placed across the movement of the car.
There is also a concept fixtureWhen the crossbars are already built into the roof design and are pushed out by turning the handle. In this case, a separate purchase of basic arcs is not required, and the user immediately proceeds to the choice of attachments. However, the classic scheme of "railings + crossbars + cargo" remains the most common.
⚠️ Warning: Never attempt to secure a luggage box or basket directly to the rails without using special crossbars (arcs), unless the railing design explicitly implies this. This can cause damage to the roof and loss of cargo at high speed.
Choosing the right crossbars depends on the type of roof of your car. For cars with gutters, a smooth roof or fixed mounting points, different sets of supports are used. An error in choosing the type of supports can make installation impossible or unsafe.
Autobox (kofr): aerodynamics and protection
When you say "roof luggage" in the context of tourist trips, most often mean boxer (or autocophre). It is a rigid, streamlined plastic container that protects the contents from rain, snow, dust and road dirt. The carboxes are made of durable ABS plastic or fiberglass and have a central locking system.
The main advantage of the carbox over open systems is aerodynamics. Due to its drop-shaped shape, the box minimally increases air resistance, which saves fuel and reduces the noise level in the cabin compared to an open basket. Inside the box, there are often attachments to fix the loads so that they do not move when moving.
There is a division of autoboxes by type of opening:
- 🚙 Unilateral discovery: The lid opens only on one side (usually with a passenger side), which is convenient for narrow streets, but requires parking a certain side.
- 🔄 Bilateral opening: The lid is lifted on both sides, allowing access to things regardless of how the car is parked.
- 📏 Different capacity: Volumes range from 300 liters (for skiing and snowboarding) to 600+ liters (for a full family holiday).
When choosing a carbox, you should pay attention to the quality of plastic. Cheap models in the cold can become fragile, and with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light - burn out. Quality. Thule, Atlant or Lux use additives that increase resistance to UV radiation and low temperatures.
Baggage basket (expeditionary): for dimensions
If you need to transport dirty equipment, bicycles without covers, long pipes or bulky objects of irregular shape, then the ideal solution is to use the same equipment. luggage-basketIt is often called an “expeditionary.” It is an open metal structure welded from rods or pipes that is mounted on crossbars.
Unlike the carbox, the basket does not have a top cover (although it is sometimes sold separately as an option - a tent case). This allows you to place loads whose height exceeds the dimensions of the closed box. Expeditionary baskets are indispensable for off-roadLong expeditions and transportation of construction equipment.
The main characteristics of luggage baskets:
- 🏗️ Construction: It can be a slender (consisting of several parts connected by bolts) or whole-welded.
- 🔩 Material: usually powder-painted steel or aluminum alloys for weight loss.
- 🔦 Additions: Often have attachments for installing additional light (LED chandelier) or stairs to access the roof.
It should be borne in mind that the open basket is much more noise at speed due to the swirling air. Also, the entire cargo in it is exposed to precipitation, so things must be packed in seals or covered with a special net-tent.
⚠️ Note: When using an open luggage basket, be sure to use elastic nets or slings to fix the cargo. The absence of an upper cover means that any unsecured object can be dropped by the wind into the oncoming lane.
To reduce noise, many owners install special ones on the front of the basket. air-deflector. They redirect the airflow, reducing the whistle and hum that occurs when driving at track speeds.
Specialized fasteners: skis, bicycles, boats
In addition to universal containers, there are highly specialized devices that are also attached to the roof. Their common name is specialty. They are designed to take into account the geometry of a particular type of equipment and ensure it is reliably fixed without the risk of damage.
The most popular cycling-mount (bicycle trunks) They are framed (capture the frame of the bicycle) or wheeled (fixed by the wheels). Modern models are often equipped with a system. T-lock It's a protection from theft. For winter sports are intended ski-mountThey may be open (just clamps) or closed (narrow box penal).
For owners of water equipment are relevant fastenings for kayaking, canoeing and inflatable boats. They are a system of brackets and soft lobes that repeat the contours of the ship's hull. This allows you to safely transport fragile boats, without deforming their body with point loads.
Comparison of types of specialized fasteners:
| Type of cargo | Type of attachment | Features of installation | Protection against theft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cycling | Cycling (frame/wheels) | Removal of the front wheel (often) | High (locks included) |
| Skiing/Snowboard | Ski boxing or clamps | Quick clamping installation | Medium (depending on the model) |
| Boat/Kayak | Lodges and brackets | We need a second man. | Low (requires additional cables) |
| Surf/Padleboard | Soft crosses | Slapped with straps through the salon | Absent. |
How to transport surfboards without special fasteners?
For a single transportation, you can use soft crosses (inflatable bars), which are inflated and placed on the roof, or special belts passing through the car interior. However, this is a temporary solution that does not provide such protection and aerodynamics as standard mounts.
Loading standards and legal aspects
Installation of any additional equipment on the roof of the car is regulated by technical regulations and traffic rules. There's a concept static and dynamic load. Static load is the weight that a roof can withstand in a stationary state (usually 100-150 kg if leaning on the roof with your hands when washing). Dynamic load is the weight of the cargo that can be carried in motion.
Dynamic load is always much lower than static and is indicated by the manufacturer of the car in the instructions for use. It is usually between 50 and 100 kg, including the weight of the crossbars and trunk. Exceeding this limit can lead to deformation of the roof, separation of mounts and creation of an emergency situation.
Legal requirements for transportation:
- 📏 Dimensions: The cargo should not protrude beyond the side dimensions of the car by more than 40 cm (on each side), and in front and behind - by more than 1 meter (in the Russian Federation).
- 🚩 Designation: if the cargo protrudes beyond the dimensions of the vehicle by more than 1 meter, it should be marked with the sign "Big cargo" and red flags / lights at night.
- 👁️ Overview: the load shall not restrict the driver's view through the rear-view mirrors and the windshield.
⚠️ Attention: The penalty for improper transportation of goods (acting without a designation or exceeding the permissible dimensions) can be from 1000 to 5000 rubles, and in the case of a security threat - up to deprivation of rights. Always check the relevance of the traffic before traveling.
It is also important to consider the change in the center of gravity of the car. High load on the roof (even within normal weight) makes the car more roller in corners and increases the risk of rolling over. The driving style must be adjusted: reduce speed in corners and avoid sharp maneuvers.
Tips for selection and operation
The choice between autobox, basket or specialized mounting depends on your specific tasks. If you carry things in clean bags and appreciate silence, choose the right one. boxer. If your property is dirty equipment, wood or building materials, basket It'll be more practical. For regular trips on one sport (skiing, bicycle) it is better to buy fixation.
When buying, pay attention to the system of fastening to the crossbars. The most convenient are systems with quick-clamp mechanisms that do not require tools for installation. However, they must have reliable protection against theft (lock). Cheap models may require the use of wrenches, which is uncomfortable in the field.
☑️ Check before buying the trunk
The operation of the trunk on the roof also has its nuances. After installing the new equipment, be sure to drive the first 20-30 km at low speed (up to 60 km / h), periodically stopping and checking the tightening of the fasteners. Vibration can weaken connections.
Lubricate the rubber seals and locks of the carbox with silicone lubrication before each winter season. This will prevent the lid from freezing and maintain the rubber elasticity, ensuring tightness.
Don’t forget to remove the luggage system when it is not in use. Permanently installed crossbars and arcs increase fuel consumption by 15-20% even without load due to aerodynamic disturbance. In addition, moisture and dirt can accumulate under the fasteners, which will eventually lead to corrosion of the body.
The main criterion for choosing is the frequency of use and type of cargo. For rare trips with dirty cargo, a basket is enough, for frequent trips with valuable things, a quality carbox is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I wash my car with an automatic wash with a trunk installed?
It's not recommended. Automatic wash brushes can damage the plastic body of the carbox, tear off the mounts or scratch the roof of the car. In addition, high water pressure can disrupt the sealing tightness. It is better to use a self-service wash or manual wash.
Why does the rooftop trunk start to whistle at speed?
Whistling occurs due to the turbulence of air currents flowing around the structure. This is especially true for square arcs, open baskets and misplaced crossbars. Solution: installation of aerodynamic linings, change of position of arcs or use of drop-shaped profiles.
Is a car box dangerous for the roof of a car?
If you follow the rules of installation and loading standards - not dangerous. Modern fastening systems distribute the weight evenly and have protective rubber pads that prevent scratches. The danger arises only when exceeding the load capacity of the roof or using poor-quality, "handicraft" fasteners.
How to store a carbox in the summer?
Store the carbox should be disassembled (if the design allows) or removed from the car. The storage area should be dry, protected from direct sunlight (so that the plastic does not burn out and deform) and temperature changes. It is better to keep the cover slightly open for ventilation so that mold does not form inside.