Can I Use Thule Hullavator On Factory Bars and How To Determine Vehicle Clearance When Loading Kayak

Question:

I have a 2011 RAV4 with a factory roof racks with crossbars. Can a Hullavator be installed on these crossbars or do I have to purchase separate crossbars?

asked by: Barbara R

Expert Reply:

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier and Lift Assist with Tie-Downs - Side Loading part # TH898 can be installed on factory cross bars as long as they are square, aerodynamic or round bars. You do want to have 4-8" of bar overhang in order for the Hullavator to be lowered when you load the kayaks. I have attached a photo to help explain. If you do not have the appropriate amount of clearance the Hullavator may come into contact with your RAV4 in it's load assist position.

If your factory cross bars on the RAV4 do not have overhang, then you want have to use a different kayak carrier with load assist. The Malone SeaWing part # MPG113MD is a great option with load assist for bars that do not meet the minimum clearance requirement for side loading carriers because the Kayak would load from the rear of the vehicle with the Malone. It may be less convenient to load the Kayak from the rear of the vehicle compared to the side but you won't have to switch out your cross bars with this carrier.

expert reply by: Heather A