I have used my Thule Evolution 1600 for years. I really like having the box to keep the dust and water off of the sleeping bags, and other camp items. I want to be able to use this box and still be able to carry items on the roof. I installed some 66" Thule load bars. They helped a bit. I was able to strap two tables and an awning on top and drive across the country. I have had problems attaching a jerry can and firewood to the roof. I need a basket of sorts to go with my box. I really do not want to spend $1300 on a roof rack if I can avoid it. I found a brand new Thule 696 rack on craigslist. The measurements are 40" wide by 62" long. If I leave one of the floor slats out I can mount it to my current 66" bars but there is quite a bit of overhang.
Thule rack setup help
- Thread starter TXSunDevil
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- Thread starter
- #2
I did a mock setup this afternoon and determined it will work. The downside is the overhang and the large gap on the mounting side. At this point I think my only option would be some 78" load bars. Does anyone see a problem with this overhang? I hate the thought of having to swap load bars before a trip. I am really trying to avoid buying a trailer, but packing gear for 4 with many nights in areas where there is no electricity, water or tables can be a challenge.
- Thread starter
- #3
I wanted to update this in case anyone else was having similar issues. I ended up getting the 78" crossbars. They are just a bit narrower than the mirrors and I can still fit in the garage. I will not be keeping them on full time. I think this will fit my needs.
I would think that you are losing some of the rigidity or strength of the rack by not having it supported by the outside frame but its not easy to get a good picture of what is going on here
- Thread starter
- #5
Yes that is how I originally was going to run it. The first set of photos I posted showed the rack without a floor slat to mount it on the shorter crossbars. I elected to purchase the 78" crossbars to be sure I could use the roof rack as designed. I just hate going to the super wide crossbars though
Have you checked out a Yakima Load Warrior basket? Should be compatible to your Thule bars and you can get an extention option to increase the length by 18".
- Thread starter
- #7
I had looked at those but I found that Thule one that I got on Craigslist. It was brand new and I assembled it. I can fit a full size spare in it and I should be able to carry gas up there