Cargo Van Ladder Racks
Ladder racks are flat open framework that needs to be mounted on top of a vehicle, especially on pickup trucks. They are used to carry various loads. This includes long pipes, boards, tools, logs and timber. They can be mounted to create a roof framework that supports cargo and baggage. They have integrated locking systems that keep the load from falling off during transition.
Most cargo van ladder racks are constructed from durable, lightweight and rustproof aluminum. They require minimum maintenance and are easy to clean. Most of the racks include adjustable arms that can be fitted into most vans. Other varieties have racks of optimal widths, to fit on regular vans and mini vans. The fixing of the ladder rack onto the van is an easy task, as most of them come with a mounting hardware and step by step visual guides. The rack can be easily installed on top of the van, within a few minutes.
In addition to plain aluminum racks there are racks available in many different colors to match the panels or other trim of the van. A ladder rack’s weight capacity depends on its size and make. However, 300 lb is the weight limit for most of them because of the limited structural strength of the van roof. It is important to check a manufacturer’s credibility before making a purchase. This helps to find an authentic product and prevents freak accidents caused by ladder racks caving in. Some cargo van ladder racks offer two different types of mounting gear for vans, with and without drip wells. Read the rest of this entry »
Ford To Stamp Out Minivans
Ford Motor Co. is planning to eradicate all its minivans in its forthcoming lineup. The automaker’s decision to wipe out minivans was triggered by its poor performance in said segment. In view of said eradication, the automaker is planning to create a new class coined as ‘people movers’. The latter will be based on Fairlane which debuted at the 2005 Detroit auto show.
On one hand, a Lincoln version for said model is contemplated to be produced by the automaker. The concept and platform of the new car was based on Five Hundred sedan and Freestyle crossover utility vehicle.
This year the sales of Freestar vehicles dropped by 20 percent. Mercury Monterey, its sibling, slumped by 40 percent. Moreover, Ford has finally decided to end the production of minivans. Monterey has ended its production since August this year. Freestar, on the other hand, will follow in the spring of 2007.
Ford Freestar is quite similar to Monterey. In its 2007 version, Freestar is given 6 new exterior colors. Said colors are available for its 3 models – SE, SEL and Limited. Also, a cargo van is made available by the automaker.
On its exterior, the vehicle uses sophisticated Ford Freestyle parts which include body-colored grille for SE model, chrome grille and 16-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels for SEL. Limited, on one hand, is given chrome exterior trim, 16-inch chrome wheels, power sliding doors and heated signal mirrors with puddle lamps.
Freestar’s interior accommodates 7 occupants. It features fold-and-tumble second-row bucket seats, controllable third-row seat, bigger cargo space, covered compartment on top of the dashboard. SEL and Limited models are equipped with compass, conversation mirror, readouts for outside temperature and auxiliary buttons for the sliding doors (if installed). Freestar is also given 9 cupholders. The front-door cupholder is capable of holding 20-ounce beverages. Aside from that Freestar is also equipped with standard equipment such as CD player, cruise control, tire pressure monitoring system, power locks, remote keyless entry and more. The SEL model is given a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. Read the rest of this entry »