Abstract: An article carrier is described. The article carrier comprises a pair of side rails, an extendable article carrier, and at least one cross rail. The pair of side rails are affixed to a vehicle roof The extendable article carrier is adjustably positioned between the pair of side rails from a stowed position on a vehicle roof, to an extended position from the vehicle roof, and to a deployed position about a rear hatch. The extendable article carrier includes a first and a second pair of slider rail sections that are intermediately connected by a first pair of hinges, respectively. The extendable article carrier includes a third pair of slider rail sections. The second pair of slider rails and the third pair of slider rail sections are intermediately connected by a second pair of hinges. The first, second, and third pair of slider rail sections slide about a channel that is integrally formed in each of the side rails.

Abstract: An article carrier assembly includes a pair of longitudinally laterally spaced siderails, each attachable to a vehicle roof panel, including a track and outboard corner portion. A pair of stanchions are attached to the tracks for slidable movement through a plurality of positions. A first crossrail is pivotally secured to a forward end of one of the siderails, and is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position. In the recessed position, the first crossrail is recessed in the siderail to which the first crossrail is attached. In the deployed position, the first crossrail is supported on both siderails. A second crossrail is pivotally attached to one of the stanchions opposite the siderail to which the first crossrail is attached. The second crossrail is rotatable between a stowed position, and a deployed position. In the stowed position, the second crossrail is recessed in the siderail and in the deployed position, the second crossrail is supported on both stanchions.

Abstract: A movable running board system which includes a running board which is supported by a movable under carriage. The movable under carriage is coupled to a motor wherein the motor is capable of moving the running board between a fully extended position and a retracted position. The motor is coupled to a motor controller which receives a signal from a door position switch. When the door position switch indicates that the vehicle door is opened, the motor controller commands the motor to manipulate the running board to a fully extended position. Once the vehicle door is closed the door position sensor sends the "closed door" signal to the motor controller which, then in turn, commands the motor to retract the running board into the retracted position.

Abstract: An article carrier assembly for a vehicle roof includes a pair of side rails adapted for attachment to the vehicle roof, each side rail forming an inboard edge portion or a series of indexing holes. In one embodiment, a latch on a stanchion includes tie loops for securing articles on one assembly with rope. The latch lever includes a distal end portion engageable with the inboard edge portion or with the indexing holes for securing the stanchion with respect to the side rail. The latch lever is pivotally secured to a foot portion of the stanchion which includes spring portions compressible against the side rails to prevent rattles. In another embodiment, a hook portion of the latch compressibly engages a resilient side rail portion to create a clamping action to immobilize the stanchion on a trim rail and reduce rattles.

Abstract: A utility bar assembly for attachment to a roof rack, including an elongated utility bar, at least two clamp assemblies detachably engageable with the roof rack, at least two fastening devices for connecting the clamp assemblies to the utility bar. Optional support blocks may also be provided for positioning and supporting the utility bar on the roof rack.