Can the Thule Hullavator be Used to Carry 2 Kayaks on a 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE

Updated 05/14/2019 | Published 05/13/2019

Products Featured in This Question

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

(124)

$899.95

Malone DownLoader Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(150)

$179.95

Malone DownLoader Kayak Roof Rack w/ Lift Assist and Tie-Downs - J-Style - Clamp On

(150)

$611.90

Malone QuickLash T-Style Hood Loops for Bow and Stern Tie-Downs - Qty 2

(46)

$18.86

Yakima JayLow Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(162)

$248.95

Yakima ShowDown Kayak or SUP Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Clamp On

(23)

$648.95

Question:

We have 2 kyacks equaling 130 lbs New, 2019, Highlander XLE Do you advise using 2 Hullivators

asked by: Carol

Expert Reply:

I do have a way that you can carry 2 kayaks on your 2019 Toyota Highlander but when I checked out the online version of the owner's manual on page 204 it states not to exceed 165 lbs of weight on the roof rack. Since your 2 kayaks have a combined weight of 130 lbs and the Thule Hullavator Pro # TH898 weighs right at 40 lbs that puts you at 170 lbs which is over the weight rating for your Highlander.

The best solution for you is the Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier and TelosXL Load Assist # MPG114MD-351XL. This is a little different kind of load assist but it definitely helps to make loading and even unloading your kayaks much easier. For your second kayak you will need a second set of the DownLoader which is part # MPG114MD. Not only do these have the load assist and keep you under your weight capacity but they also come with the tie-downs you need to secure your kayaks. The only other thing you may want to check out is the Malone QuickLash # MPG308 to make connecting your tie-downs easier.

We do have the Yakima ShowDown # Y04081 which is an alternative to the Thule Hullavator and weighs 21 lbs so you could also use the Yakima JayLow # Y04073 but it sounds like you are wanting a load assist for each kayak which the DownLoader is able to provide.

I have attached a few review videos that you can check out. If you don't already have a roof rack let me know if you have flush mount rails or a naked roof and I can make a recommendation for you.