Install Tie Down Straps on a Rugged Case

Quick answer

Thread the tail end of the ROAM Tie Down Strap through the tie-down channels under the lid of your Rugged Case, then secure the strap around your roof rack or cargo area. This keeps the case fastened while allowing full lid access.

Installation steps

1. 1. Open the lid and locate the tie-down channels: Open your Rugged Case fully. Look for the molded channels running along the underside of the lid edges. These are the designated strap paths. Common mistake: trying to route the strap over the closed lid instead of through the channels. This blocks lid access.
2. 2. Thread the tail end of the strap through the channel: Take one ROAM Tie Down Strap and feed its tail end (the thinner end without the buckle) through the channel from the inside of the lid toward the outside. Checkpoint: ensure the strap lies flat inside the channel, not twisted, so it cinches evenly.
3. 3. Position the case on your mounting surface: Place the Rugged Case on your roof rack, truck bed, or cargo platform where you want it secured. Keep the strap tails accessible. Common mistake: mounting the case too close to a side rail, leaving no room to tighten the strap later.
4. 4. Wrap the strap around your anchor point and buckle: Pass the strap tail around a roof rack crossbar, rail, or another secure anchor. Then thread the tail through the buckle and pull tight to cinch. Checkpoint: pull the strap until the case is snug against the surface but not compressing the lid. Over-tightening can warp the case.
5. 5. Repeat for all four corners: Install a strap at each of the four tie-down channels on the case. Tighten each strap in a cross pattern (front-left, rear-right, etc.) for even pressure. Common mistake: tightening one side fully before starting the others, which can shift the case out of position.
6. 6. Test lid operation: Close the lid and try opening it. The straps should not interfere with the latch or hinge. If they do, re-route the strap through the channel. Final check: the lid should open fully without resistance, and the straps should remain tight against the case sides.

Product details

• Tie Down Straps: The 5ft ROAM Tie Down straps are designed to work seamlessly with Rugged Cases and Rugged Coolers. Run the tail end of the strap through the tie-down channels under the lid of each cooler and case to secure them and still maintain functionality of your lid. This design lets you open the case or cooler while it's strapped down, so you can access gear without re-securing the load each time.