Can Thule Hullavator Kayak Carrier and Square Bar Roof Rack Work on 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan

Updated 04/26/2017 | Published 04/25/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style w/ Rollers - Clamp On

(47)

$270.40

Fit Kit for Thule Evo Clamp and Edge Clamp Roof Rack Feet - 5029

(478)

$126.95

Evo Clamp Feet for Thule Crossbars - Naked Roofs - Qty 4

(410)

$210.95

Thule SquareBar Evo Crossbars - Steel - 53" Long - Qty 2

(272)

$161.96

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount

(120)

$718.95

Question:

Can I install the Thule roof rack and Hullivator on a 2016 Grand Caravan and safely carrier a 16foot long kayak on them? I see Thule does have the kit, but cross bars would only be 27.5inch apart, not sure if this is enough space between the Hullivators to safely support kayak. There currently is no factory installed roof rack on the caravan. I havent bought the Grand Caravan yet, as this is a determining factor.

asked by: Bob B

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Thule and he stated that the Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier and Lift Assist # TH898 referenced in your question is not compatible with the 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. This is simply because the weight capacity of the Grand Caravan along with a roof rack is not sufficient to support the Hullavator.

I instead recommend looking at the Yakima Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs # Y04083-04082. This system is a bit different than the Hullavator but it does also offer some load assistance. Its two padded, pivoting rollers will allow the kayak to be loaded in from the rear and then slid up the vehicle's roof the rest of the way. The carrier is compatible with the Thule Square Bar Roof Rack you mentioned for your vehicle, which consists of parts # TH712400, # TH710501 and # TH145029.

I have attached a demonstration video for the Yakima Kayak Carrier System that you can check out as well.