Need some input concerning hanging from a luggage rack

**alphaskin7** · 11-01-2011, 17:06

Basically, I am interested in the idea of strapping one end of my suspension to the roof rack of my xterra (obviously the other end would be strapped to a tree or a pole or what have you) when the rare occasion arises that it might be convenient to do so-such as testing things out in my very tree-poor neighborhood.

My concern is damaging my vehicle as I weigh ~230 lbs. and I don't really know the math and specifications well enough to determine whether or not this would be safe. Does anyone have any advice or experience here that I might find useful?

**pgibson** · 11-01-2011, 17:09

Luggage racks are generally a no-no, there have been a number of them break or even rip right off of vehicles. However going around the door frame is considered to be ok. Racks just are not normally built to take the load that way.

**NewtonGT** · 11-01-2011, 17:11

Originally Posted by alphaskin7

Basically, I am interested in the idea of strapping one end of my suspension to the roof rack of my xterra (obviously the other end would be strapped to a tree or a pole or what have you) when the rare occasion arises that it might be convenient to do so-such as testing things out in my very tree-poor neighborhood.

My concern is damaging my vehicle as I weigh ~230 lbs. and I don't really know the math and specifications well enough to determine whether or not this would be safe. Does anyone have any advice or experience here that I might find useful?

I wish I had the link but ive seen someone hang off of there cherokee, Id also have to ask about if this is going on the stock roof rack or an aftermarket one. because im pretty sure my weight limit for my aftermarket rola rack is not alot. but I could be wrong. stock rack rails might be a bit more secure but im not 100%

**Cannibal** · 11-01-2011, 17:12

I tie to the top hinges of the rear hatch of my Trailblazer fairly regularly, but I wouldn't dare tie to the roof rack. Those things are just superficially attached.

**alphaskin7** · 11-01-2011, 17:15

Originally Posted by pgibson

Luggage racks are generally a no-no, there have been a number of them break or even rip right off of vehicles. However going around the door frame is considered to be ok. Racks just are not normally built to take the load that way.

Bare with me as I am having a bit of trouble picturing the door frame setup. Would I simply roll down both windows on one side and wrap through like one would on a tree or post?

**pgibson** · 11-01-2011, 17:17

Originally Posted by alphaskin7

Bare with me as I am having a bit of trouble picturing the door frame setup. Would I simply roll down both windows on one side and wrap through like one would on a tree or post?

That's how I have seen it done a few times....that or even going around the far door and then over the roof.....I'll see if I can find a picture.....

**oldgringo** · 11-01-2011, 17:22

Originally Posted by alphaskin7

Bare with me as I am having a bit of trouble picturing the door frame setup. Would I simply roll down both windows on one side and wrap through like one would on a tree or post?

That, or open both doors, pass your webbing around the "B" pillar, and close the doors.

**pgibson** · 11-01-2011, 17:24

Here is one way by DBLhammock

That's the only one that I found quick but I know there are lots of others.

**danfromnb** · 11-01-2011, 17:31

If you are going to attach to a door frame attach it to the far door so that the load is pulling into the car's body. Otherwise you WILL damage the door, possibly to the point of needing the door replaced.

An xterra has a beefier roof rack than say, an average minivan, but using any roof rack is not a good idea at all IMO.

A rear spare tire carrier or as previously mentioned a rear hatch hinge would be strong enough. Though I'd be a little leery of square edges on a hinge.