Should 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon Crossbars be Offset to Fit Thule Hullavator Carrier

Updated 03/14/2022 | Published 03/13/2022

Products Featured in This Question

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

(124)

$899.95

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 4

(798)

$74.95

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 6

(795)

$94.95

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Silver - 47" Long - Qty 2

(1280)

$279.95

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 47" Long - Qty 2

(1280)

$279.95

Question:

Please identify a kayak carrier system including the Thule Hullivator on a 2017 Outback Wagon having OEM roof rails with integrated crossbars. Kayak is 10.6 feet and maximum beam width is 32-inches. I read on etrailer.com that crossbars supporting Hullivator must extend at least 4-inches past roof legs. Maximum width for OEM roof leg mounting housing is 43-inches, leaving 7-inches available as overhang with an optional 50-inch crossbar. Elliptical OEM bar spacing is 29.5-inches with crossbars in carrier position. Can an optional crossbar be biased to one side to achieve the 4+ inch minimum overhang? What is the optional crossbar system recommended, including towers for the elliptical OEM roof rails, to compete a Thule Hullivator installation? What lock system if any is available to secure system installation? Is this item list complete for a Hullivator installation? Thank you.

asked by: Richard M

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you can shift the OEM crossbars on your 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon so you can achieve the 4" overhang on one side then yes, that is exactly the same thing Thule will do sometimes to fit the Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier # TH898 on various vehicles.

If you don't already have a roof rack system I highly recommend going with the Thule WingBar Evo system over any OEM roof rack system because it has a dual rubber channel for the T-Slot so you don't have to cut anything if you use that configuration for the Hullavator Pro or other accessories. Here are the parts you need:

47" WingBar Evo Crossbars - Black # TH711220 or Silver # TH711200
Rapid Podium Feet - # TH460R
Fit Kit - # THKIT4063
Lock Kit - # TH450400 (optional)

If you'd like to make it so your roof rack has matching locks with the Hullavator Pro then you'll want to pick up the 6-Core Lock Kit # TH450600 instead.