Mounting an Old Thule Adventurer Cargo Box On A Mazda CX-5

Updated 07/08/2021 | Published 07/04/2021

Question:

I have an old Thule Adventurer cargo box and a much newer Mazda CX-5 with dealer-installed crossbar rack with bars about 3inch wide x 3/4inch thick oval rather than rectangular. My old mounting hardware for the Thule crossbars doesnt work the U-bolt is only 2inch wide with 65mm arms. Im hoping that some of your other parts can help: - Replacement U-Bolt for Thule Sidekick Cargo Box - TH02943 - Replacement Bottom Mounting Clamp for Thule Ride-On Adapter, Snowboard Rack and Flat Top Ski Carrier - 753-2854 - Pads or brackets, e.g. 5 Hole for Thule Sidekick - TH03918 So questions: - What are the actual sizes of all these? Im hoping that the U-bolt is 4inch or 102mm wide, which would fit holes in the Adventurer box bottom. Then Id want the other pieces to match that. - Is the bottom mounting clamp rubber, suitable for protecting the rack bars? - Does the 5-hole bracket have two holes that will fit the U-bolt? Or, do you have a specific solution that you would recommend?

asked by: Jim D

Expert Reply:

You seem to have an older thule cargo box which they do not make anymore. If you're not wanting to get a new box you will have to rig something up to get the box to work with your bars. You will have to drill out one hole and use an existing hole for each mounting location. If you're looking to keep your box, this is the route you need to go since they do not make your box anymore. These brackets # CTC-18PARTS have mounting holes about 4 inches apart so they will fit around your crossbars which is the size you're looking for.

expert reply by: Adam E