Replacement Roof Rack Crossbars For 2019 Toyota RAV4 For Use Of The Thule Hullavator

Question:

I recently purchased a 2019 Toyota RAV4 AWD XLE. The standard roof rails are flush to the roof which means that I cant used my Thule Hullavator to carry my kayak on the roof. There needs to be 1 1/2inch clearance between the rail and the roof, I believe, because the retaining straps wrap AROUND the rail. When I purchased the car in April, it seemed that neither Toyota nor anyone else made replacement roof rails for this new model? Is there a solution now available?

asked by: Jonathan C

Expert Reply:

The reason the Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier and Lift Assist with Tie-Downs - Side Loading part # TH898 does not work on most factory roof racks bar is because it requires the bars to extend 4-8" past the feet of the roof rack for clearance when it the carrier is in the load assist position. Otherwise the carrier would scrape up the side of your new car. I have not heard of 1-2 inches between the bar and the roof issue.

If your 2019 Toyota RAV4 has flush mount rails that run front to back, I recommend Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars part # TH711200 with the Rapid Podium Feet for Thule Crossbars part # TH460R and Thule Fit Kit for Podium Style Foot Pack part # TH78RE.

If your RAV4 has factory raised rails, I recommend Yakima CoreBar Crossbars part # Y00421 with TimberLine Towers for Yakima Crossbars part # Y33TR. Either of these roof racks will give you the extra overhang that you need to use the Hullavator.