Minimum Spread Between Crossbars For Thule Overcast Awning

Updated 02/06/2023 | Published 02/05/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Overcast Awning - Roof Rack Mount - 6' 6" Long x 6' 6" Wide

(8)

$499.95

Yakima OverNOut Awning - Roof Rack Mount - Clamp On - 6' 6" Long x 6' 6" Wide

(74)

$498.95

Question:

In the instruction booklet that came with this Thule awning, it tells me that the minimum distance between my two cross bars must be 36 inch minimum from the centers of the cross bars. I come up a little short - Im at 36 inch from the lead edge of the front cross bar to the rear edge of the rear cross bar. But from center of each cross bar Im probably only at 33-34. Is this a recommended minimum distance for balance or some other purpose or does it have to do with the assembly? If it is related to the assembly is there any sort of adjustment you might recommend? I really like this awning and do want to have to return it. By the way, it is still in the box and Id like to keep it that way until I can get an answer to this problem.

asked by: Lee C

Helpful Expert Reply:

Thank you for your purchase from etrailer of the Thule Overcast Awning # TH8002AW604. The minimum crossbar spread is 36 inches from center to center and that is for balance and weight bearing purposes. Technically it can be assembled and mounted at your lesser spread but I can't recommend going against the manufacturer's instructions.

So it's up to you whether you take that chance, but if you'd rather not, there is an alternative that will work with your spread, the Yakima SlimShady Awning # Y36VR.

This is also a roof rack mount, and also 6-1/2' x 6-1/2' like the Overcast. The SlimShady only requires a 24 inch crossbar spread though, so it'd work out perfectly for you.

expert reply by: Kyle S