1. Prepare Your Vehicle and Rack:
- Ensure your vehicle is in neutral gear (for manual transmission) or park (for automatic transmission) with the engine turned off and parking brake engaged.
- Engage the car rack's safety devices as per its instructions to prevent the wheel from rolling off the rack.
2. Position the Vehicle:
- Align the vehicle in front of the car rack, ensuring it's positioned squarely with the rack's rails or cradles.
3. Install the Wheel Straps:
- Carefully place the wheel straps over the vehicle's tires and secure them as per the rack's instructions.
- Make sure the straps are tight, secure, and centered over the tires to prevent movement.
4. Position the Wheel Stops:
- If your rack has wheel stops, place them against the vehicle's wheels to provide additional support and prevent the car from rolling.
5. Secure the Vehicle:
- Use the rack's built-in ratchets or locking mechanisms to secure the vehicle onto the rack.
- Tighten all straps, ropes, or other securing devices following the rack manufacturer's instructions to create a firm connection between the vehicle and the rack.
6. Double-Check Everything:
- Double-check that all straps, ropes, safety latches, and securing devices are properly fastened, ensuring the vehicle is securely attached to the rack.
7. Additional Precautions:
- Always follow the weight limits and usage instructions provided by the rack manufacturer.
- If the vehicle is too heavy or exceeds the rack's capacity, it's unsafe to transport.
- If the rack wobbles or has any visible damage, refrain from using it and seek professional assistance.
- Secure any loose items inside the vehicle to prevent them from shifting during transport.
- Ensure that your mirrors and antennas are folded to prevent damage while transporting the vehicle.
- For added security, you may consider using a safety chain or cable to secure the front of the vehicle to the towing vehicle.
8. Attach Safety Flags or Markers:
- If required by law, attach the appropriate safety flags or markers to the vehicle and rack combination to increase visibility to other motorists.
Remember, safety is paramount when transporting vehicles on a rack. Always prioritize securing the vehicle properly by closely following the instructions provided by the rack manufacturer and your vehicle's owner's manual.
