Abstract: The subject matter of this invention is a carrier rack for mounting on an exterior surface of a vehicle to enable luggage or other goods to be carried thereupon. More specifically, the invention relates to a rack including outer rail portions supported above the vehicle surface by stanchion members at least some of which include tie-down features which enable flexible load restraining elements such as ropes, cables or the like to be secured to the stanchion and thereafter be extended across the luggage or other loads to contain the same within the rack and upon the vehicle surface.

Abstract: An external cargo carrier for a vehicle and which carrier includes a mechanism allowing longitudinal adjustment of a cross rail relative to a pair of transversely spaced side rails and which mechanism also permits the cross rail to be quickly and easily removed from the side rails.

Abstract: An end piece and tie-down member for a low profile article-supporting slat wherein the member includes a depending portion which coacts with an opening in the base of the slat to prevent rotation or misalignment of the member relative to the slat.

Abstract: A two-part stanchion for a vehicle article carrier wherein one part includes an integral base, wall means extending upwardly from not more than half the base periphery and a second part including wall means coacting with the first part to enclose the base.

Abstract: A slotted side rail and cross-rail receiving bracket assembly for association with an article carrier, such as a luggage carrier, is disclosed. A slidable cross-rail is supported between a pair of cross-rail receiving brackets and is movable with the brackets along the slotted side rail. Each bracket includes a rail engaging lock for locking the bracket anywhere along the length of the slotted side rail. The lock prevents unintended loosening of the bracket and resultant movement of the bracket along the side rail.

Abstract: An adjustable and removable ski rack for association with an automotive vehicle carrier is adapted to be releasably attached to a bracket slidingly positioned in a carrier track. The ski rack includes a removable key-operated lock for lockingly detachably pivoting an end of the rack to enable insertion or removal of skis. The bracket includes a disc for releasably locking the bracket anywhere along the length of the track. The disc is ratcheted in a preferred embodiment to prevent unintended loosening of the bracket and resultant movement of the bracket along the track.