Roof Rack for 2017 Toyota 4Runner to Accommodate Thule Hullavator

Question:

I want to be able to carry two 36-inch wide kayaks on top of my 2017 4Runner. Id like to have the Thule Hullavator for both of them. My questions is, how wide of load bars do I need in order to accomodate my kayaks.

asked by: Jason J

Expert Reply:

I checked with Thule and you can use the Thule Hullavator # TH898 on your 2017 Toyota 4Runner along with a rack from Thule that consists of Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars # TH711420 (Black) or # TH711400 (Silver) and Evo Raised Rail Feet for Thule Crossbars # TH710401.

However, because the Hullavator requires between 4" and 8" between the feet and the end of the bars, and since your kayaks are 36" wide you would only be able to use one Hullavator; longer bars would make the distance between the feet and the end of the bars too long on a 4Runner. You would need to use a J-Style kayak carrier such as the Yakima JayLow # Y04073 so you can load one of the kayaks on its side; this carrier does come with tie-down straps so you can secure your kayak to the roof.

expert reply by: Kyle S

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Amack

7/5/2020

Hi, I have the same question. i want to use 2 hullavators on a 2019 4Runner for two 68 lb kayaks (34” wide each). Seems like it wont be possible based on this thread. We tried using a J style rack and we literally couldnt get them up on the roof. (We are both under 5’5” and it was just too awkward and heavy. ) 1. Could I replace the factory rack and/or rails with something else that would allow the hullavators to fit? 2. Would the malone downloader with load assist work instead? It is also a lot lighter. What bars would I need to get to accomodate 2 of them?

Chris R.

7/8/2020

You could technically replace the factory bars on your 4Runner with longer crossbars, but you'd have to significantly larger to accommodate two Hullavators - it's just not really practical. I instead recommend using the Malone DownLoader # MPG114MD-351XL plus an additional set of the J-Style Carrier # MPG114MD. This offers a perfect solution since the actual load-assist device isn't permanently mounted (only used when needed) and can switch between each side of the roof to load up both kayaks. When it's not being used you just have a couple sets of standard J-style cradles on the roof.