Can Thule Force XT Roof Mounted Cargo Box Be Used to Carry Surfboards

Updated 11/24/2010 | Published 11/22/2010

Question:

Hello I am currently planning and preparing for a drive from San Francisco, Ca to Costa Rica. I have a 2003 Tacoma 4 door with a rack over camper shell. On top of the truck I will have my kayak and a couple of surf boards. Once I saw your rack I thought it would make a great way to transport our boards and some other valuable gear as we drive through some poor areas of Central America. After looking at your products I feel that this model is might be what I am looking for? Do you have any recommendations? Do you make a hauler special for surf boards? Thank you,

asked by: Jon C

Expert Reply:

A locking cargo box would be ideal for securing your gear and keeping it out of sight when traveling. If you plan on using the Thule Force XT Roof Mounted Cargo Box, # TH6358B, on a roof rack on top of the roof of the 2003 Toyota Tacoma, you will need to make sure that it has crossbars that run side to side. The crossbars will need to be 3-1/2 inches wide or less for the box to mount correctly.

The box is 7-1/2 inches long inside so you will need to make sure your boards will fit this length. Also, the box is 33-3/4 inches wide externally. You will need to determine if this width plus the kayak will fit the crossbar width on the vehicle. Last, you will need to determine the weight capacity of the roof and the capacity of the rack and adhere to the lowest rated component in the system.

We do have some products designed to carry surfboards but they will allow the boards to be visible on the roof and they cannot be locked. I have included a link to the available options below.

expert reply by: Michael H