How to Assemble the QM3 Mounting Hardware for a Thule Frontier Cargo Box

Updated 01/23/2012 | Published 01/20/2012

Question:

Hi, Why CANT the older 668 Frontier Box use the E.S.EasySnap - 05704. Whats the problem in doing so? Is there a spacing problem? Can I modify/adjust the holes in the old 668 box to fit the new E.S. hardware? If not, can you show me how to use the original Thule mounting brackets for the 668 Box? I have 7 pieces per mount X 4. Sooooo time consuming...... Thanks

asked by: Tony P

Expert Reply:

The ES in the Frontier ES means easy snap. As you have already guessed, the hole spacing is different and you would have to modify the box in order to use an alternate mounting kit on a non-ES box. Modifying the box will compromise the structural integrity of the box and void any warranty the box and mounting kit have.

The correct hardware is the QM3 hardware like # TH04997. This hardware does have a lot of parts but once you have it set up, you will only need to loosen one nut/bolt to remove the box from the rails. I have included a link that shows how it all goes together.

Once you have it all in place, to easily remove the box (yet keep all the hardware together) just loosen the knob above the hooked end of the quick mount bracket and you can pivot it on the other bolt and lift the box off the bars.

expert reply by: Michael H