Will the Thule Ascent 1700 Cargo Box Interfere with the Rear Hatch on a 1997 Subaru Legacy Outback

Question:

I have a 1997 Subaru Legacy Outback and am wondering if the ascent 1700 will fit. I heard that the back hatch cant open all the way if mounted.

asked by: KEvin

Expert Reply:

The Thule Ascent 1700, # TH605, will fit the factory crossbars on a 1997 Subaru Legacy Outback. There is always a chance that the box will interfere with the rear hatch being able to fully open on the vehicle. What you can do to limit or eliminate contact is to adjust the box on the crossbars to make the box more forward on the vehicle. If you have adjustable crossbars, you can also move them forward.

Another option is to use a different box that is shorter. In this type of situation, I usually recommend the Yakima RocketBox Pro 14, # Y07192, because it is 14 cubic feet, only 3 less than the Ascent, and it is only 74 inches long as opposed to the Ascent which is 91-1/2 inches long. With the RocketBox Pro 14 installed, it is unlikely the rear hatch will contact the box.

I have included links to the installation details for each box for you.

expert reply by: Michael H