Recommend Roof Box for 2011 Toyota 4Runner with Factory Crossbars

Question:

I am looking for a rook box for my 2011 Toyota 4Runner Limited. The box should not interfere with for fully opened rear hatch door. I have factory roof rack with two factory crossbars rated at 132 lb. capacity, which I assume is per for crossbar for a 264 lb. total maximum weight. Please recommend the best option for 18 to 22 cf capacity. I am leaning toward the Thule Motion XT XL, but am looking for expert recommendations.

asked by: David B

Expert Reply:

First let's talk about the the roof capacity. The 132 lb capacity you have is the total roof capacity so you would not double that to get the overall capacity.

For rear hatch clearance you can take a quick measurement from the center of the front crossbar rearward to the seam between the roof and rear hatch. That is the front clearance measurement that allows the hatch to be fully opened with a roof box installed. For the Thule Motion XT # TH629706 the front clearance is 47-1/2 inches and for Motion XL part # TH629806 that distance is 51-1/4 inches.

Problem is Thule does not recommend attach their boxes directly to the factory bars of your 2011 Toyota 4Runner. Problem is the factory bars sit to close to the roof of the vehicle for the boxes to be able to attach. You'd need a roof rack as well like the Evo Raised Rail Feet # TH710401, 53" WingBar Evo Crossbars # TH711420, as well as locks # TH450400. See install video.