Recommended Replacement Mounting Hardware for Thule 250 Cargo Box on 2001 Subaru Outback Roof Bar

Question:

Would the #SR04952 kit accommodate a 4 3/4inch spread? Im trying to replace the original bracket for a Thule 250 cargo box that I picked up used. I want to put it on the factory crossbars of my 01 Subaru Outback, but as you can see in the picture provided the bracket that came with the Thule 250 originally is not wide enough for the Subaru crossbar. Id like to use the two outermost holes in the box and its internal mounting plate and need a bracket with that 4 3/4inch spread. The addition of new bolts and knobs would be beneficial as well and I see the kit includes all of this, but dont know if it will be large enough for this 4 3/4inch spread. Thanks

asked by: Colby

Helpful Expert Reply:

Since Thule and SportRack are sister companies many of their replacement parts kits for cargo boxes like your 20+ year old Thule 250 will work with their other products. It may be necessary on occasion to maybe drill a new hole in the box to accommodate the new hardware but this is easy to do, does not compromise the box in any way and any extra holes can be easily sealed up with a product like Loctite RTV # LT37467 or silicone caulk available from your local hardware store.

Thule no longer offers original replacement hardware for this box (I confirmed this with my contact there) but the Thule kit # TH05603 should work fine as long as your factory bars are not wider than the 3-3/4 inch width between the threaded portion of the U-bolts.

expert reply by: Adam R