Fit of Older Thule Kayak Racks on Older AeroBlade Crossbars

Question:

What are the options for mounting my older Kayak carriers to my ARB53 Aeroblades safely and securely. I would like to know all my options? Original bolts are to short and not sure if the brackets are meant to go with the Aeroblades?

asked by: Don R

Expert Reply:

According to Thule, your 883 Glide and Set kayak carrier is compatible with crossbars that are up to 3-5/8 inches wide and 1-1/2 inches tall. Since the old Thule AeroBlades were 3-1/8 by 1-1/8, the Glide and Set kayak carrier you have should fit on them with just a bit of room to spare. Thule doesn't offer an option that would allow this carrier to work with the top slot on your crossbars.

As far as the other kayak carrier goes, can you provide a part number? It looks like that carrier has been discontinued for awhile, and I'd be happy to check with Thule regarding mounting options to an AeroBlade crossbar if you could reply with the carrier's part number or product name.

expert reply by: Mike L