FAQ
SUMO
Q) Will this thing fly off my car?
A) No. SUMO uses 4 independent suction mounts that provide superb adhesion to smooth clean surfaces. The PRIMARY GOAL of SUMO is to provide the most secure adhesion for safe and secure rod transport. Please view the video: (click here)
Q) Will my rods stay on the SUMO?
A) Yes. SUMO uses double 5mm shock cord that creates a lot of down force on the rods holding them firmly against the foam rod rests. Additionally, SUMO incorporates a highly secure and unique retention feature that “locks” the pull ring to the underside of the rod rests. This feature prevents the strap assembly from coming undone and requires that the pull ring be pulled down and then out to “unlock”. Click here to view details.
Q) I have an aluminum hood/roof, will SUMO work?
A) Yes, SUMO will adhere to aluminum extremely well.
Q) I have a fiberglass tonneau cover on my truck, will SUMO work on it?
A) Yes, SUMO will adhere to smooth fiberglass surfaces very well.
Q) My truck has a topper or camper shell that is fiberglass and the roof of my truck is metal, can SUMO work?
A) Yes, SUMO suction mounts will adhere to any combination of steel, aluminum, glass, plastic, fiberglass.
Q) How many rods can SUMO hold?
A) SUMO can hold up to 6 rods and reels.
Q) How fast can I drive?
A) SUMO has been tested to 100 mph by a professional driver. We can’t recommend you drive beyond your local speed limits, but rest assure it can handle Autobahn speeds.
Q) Will SUMO scratch or damage my car?
A) No, SUMO suction mounts do not contain metal or hard edges that can damage your car’s surfaces.
Q) My Jeep Wrangler does not have a hard top, will the SUMO work?
A) Yes, SUMO will work great! Mount one unit to the hood or fender and the other unit on the windshield.
Q) How tall is SUMO?
A) SUMO can extend to 7″ as measured from the bottom to top of the rod rests. This height is enough for large spinning reels and can clear roof racks.
Q) Why suction mounts instead of magnets?
A) Put simply, magnets stick (and only to steel) and suction mounts adhere. Suction mounts provide superior adhesion over magnets for their given size. And importantly magnets will only stick to steel and no other material. Since cars are made from glass, aluminum, plastic and fiberglass, magnets have very limited use. Additionally, our suction mounts can conform to slight curves in the surfaces allowing far greater mounting flexibility than magnets.
We have opted to use the lever-lock suction mounts for their superior adhesion qualities. Properly engaged, the lever-lock suction mount will not detach until the lever is released and the suction pad pull tab is lifted up. In our 13 years of making rod carriers for cars we have tested dozens of suction mounts and this unit is by far the best we have ever tested. For superior performance, follow all directions as outlined in the included ‘How to Set-up and Use Your SUMO Rod Carrier” pamphlet. To read a copy of the pamphlet, click here.
HELPFUL HINTS
Suction mounts require clean surfaces to perform to maximum levels. Although your car may look clean, a layer of grime can build up and affect the adhesion qualities. If the suction mounts are not adhering to your vehicle, it is likely the surfaces are not clean and dry.
IMPORTANT: 1) Read the instruction manual before using
2) Remember to press down on the “pressure disk” when activating the lever-lock
3) Pull on the suction mount after activating to be sure there is solid adhesion
4) Occasionally check the suction mounts for proper adhesion
Cleaning your cars surface for best performance:
1) For painted surfaces rubbing alcohol may suffice, however for older or cars that are not regularly washed, lacquer thinner will cut through grime build-up. Lacquer thinner is powerful and used properly will not damage your cars surface. Always use a clean rag and wipe the area thoroughly.
2) For glass surfaces window cleaner will work fine.
Cleaning the suction pads:
Mild cleansing agents such as rubbing alcohol, window cleaner and mild detergents and water are best and will not damage the pads. It is possible to use more aggresive solvents if needed, however, do not let the solvent stay on the surface too long. Always use a clean and soft cloth for cleaning. If there is damage or non-removable contaminants on the pads, replace before use. Replacement pads can be ordered from RODMOUNTS and are inexpensive and easy to replace.
When not using SUMO, be sure to store it carefully to protect the suction pads from damage and deformation. In addition, make sure the lever-lock is in the non-activated (unlocked) position. Long term storage of the suction mounts in the activated (locked) position will adversely affect the adhesion qualities. You can visually check the suction pads and they should be flat and not inverted or cupped.
SUMO User Manual and Warranty (click)
RODLOFT PRO
Q) Will the RODLOFT PRO fit my car?
A) Most likely, the RODLOFT PRO comes with 6 different mounting options that allow it to fit most passenger vehicles. Because of the vast variety of cars and the types and numbers of rods you are going to transport, we do not make specific recommendations as to what might work the best for your application. Please review the mounting options on the RODLOFT PRO page and determine which would work best for you in your car.
Q) I see that the PRO comes with 6 rod holders, can I carry more?
A) Yes, in most instances. The system can accommodate up to 30 rods on the largest vehicles. Additional rod holders (XMPRO) are sold separately.
Q) I both fly fish and spin fish, can the RODLOFT PRO hold both types?
A) Yes, the PRO can carry any type of rod and reels combos, including large offshore tackle.
Q) Do I need to drill or alter my car?
A) No, there is no drilling, alterations or permanent mounting required. All mounting options can be installed and removed in minutes.
Q) How long are the telescopic support bars?
A
Q) How much weight can it hold?
A) There is no weight limitation for RODLOFT PRO. However, please note that if you choose to use the suction couplers, they will have limits to how much weight they can support. Limiting factors include how long the RODLOFT PRO will be installed using the suction couplers, total weight of rods and reels and the type of driving (rough roads and “extreme” driving). For heavy rods, long duration and extreme driving, it is best to use the other mounting options.
Q) How long are the telescopic support bars?
A) The telescopic support bars included in the RODLOFT PRO kit will extend to 65″. We also have available bars that will extend to 80″ and 93″ (sold separately), please see our order page for more info.
Do you have another question? Call us at 541-330-8808 or email us. Thanks!
