Does the Thule Force XT XXL or Yakima SkyBox 21 Rooftop Cargo Box Have the Easier Install

Updated 08/11/2022 | Published 08/09/2022

Question:

We would like to purchase one of the larger cargo boxes to use across our two vehicles and wondering which would do better for easy transfer, and if ordering aditional parts/moutns would make it easier? Vehicle 1: 2009 Ford E350 Heavy Duty Van w/Yakima Load Warrier basket round bars Vehicle 2: 2018 Ford Explorer XLT with Yakima skyline towers and 50inch corebars Ive researched both and prefer the Yakima price plus staying in the same brand line unsure of the advantage of this but why not - but which one would be easier to transfer back and forth across vehicles? Should we order an extra set of clamps/mounts/bolts and keep those on the vehicle to make transfering from one to the other easier/faster or is that not possible? Estimate we would move them around every 2-3 months. I have also heard it is not recommended to keep an empty box on the vehicle, but is that really a problem? Is travel/high winds the bigest concern or what are other factors cars are not stored in garage. Can we just put it on our van and keep it there for the season and then transfer to the other car for a few months or as needed?

asked by: Katrina E

Expert Reply:

Between the Thule Force XT XXL Rooftop Cargo Box # TH6359B and the Yakima SkyBox 21 Rooftop Cargo Box # Y07337, the Thule Force XT XXL Rooftop Cargo Box # TH6359B is going to be the best option for the easiest transfer between vehicles. Both boxes work with round, square, aero and elliptical crossbars. So, you are good to go there.

The reason the Thule Force XT XXL Rooftop Cargo Box # TH6359B will be the easier option is because it features built-in Quick-Grip clamps that you simply turn the dials to secure the mounting clamps to the roof rack and the integrated PowerClick torque indicator clicks when the clamps are properly tightened. Because the clamps are built-in, there would be no benefit to getting a second pair, especially since the clamps install from the inside of the cargo box.

I have included a video that shows the installation of the Thule Force XT XXL Rooftop Cargo Box # TH6359B so you can see how easy the installation is.

You can leave your cargo box installed when not in use. The biggest reason against this would be wear. Your box will show wear and tear quicker if it always exposed to the elements, even when not in use. It will also impact your fuel economy.

expert reply by: Scott S