Has anyone used a Yakima or Thule rooftop box/pod with the oem horizontal rails?

I have a need for rooftop cargo solution. I will RARELY use it...I'm only considering it for one particular upcoming trip. Looking at both the Thule and Yakima websites provides no guidance. I'd like something that bolts right onto the rails. My 4R has the optional horizontal rails from the port install. If Yes, a specific model # would be appreciated. thanks in advance

 

I don't know, this is just me, but I took the Yakima basket out of my rig. I had a long trip and the noise and wind hitting the horizontal pieces was just too much for me. So be aware you will hear it. I sold this to another fellow member here.

 

The oem cross bars are pretty weak. If you put a box on them, expect some wind vibrations from it.

 

To avoid confusion, generally the “rails” go front-to-rear, and the “crossbars” go side-to-side. Check out the threads referenced below. Some have reported clearance issues with the stock curved crossbars. Also, be aware that long boxes might interfere with the opening of the rear hatch.


https://www.4runners.com/threads/mounting-thule-rooftop-box-on-oem-cross-bars.30077/

https://www.4runners.com/threads/stock-roof-cross-bars-vs-thule-yakima-for-ski-box.29996/

https://www.4runners.com/threads/cross-bars-let-yakima-box-rub-on-roof.40805/

 

been using a Thule Motion XT with the stock xbars on both our SR5 4Runners for 5 years now. works great

 

I have a Yakima Skybox Pro that I've used with the stock crossbars.
I would say that if you are only using it occasionally it works fine. I use it mostly for ski trips to keep the skis out of the car, and nice to be able to throw some extra stuff up there as well.
Two main drawbacks
#1 you have to be careful if you open the tailgate as it will hit on the box. (Since the 4Runner back window rolls down, I just access the back through the window when I have the box on.)
#2 Do not overload the box as the factory bars will allow it to hit the roof and possibly cause some scratches.
I also bought some Yakima rail clamps and round bars, so if I want to run heavier loads in the box it won't hit the roof.

 

me thinks @Thatbassguy has ran a Yakima offgrid basket, or megawarrior if memory serves

 

Correct on both, actually! I had the Off-grid, then sold it to build a rack (which never happened) and then bought the Megawarrior.

@cuse93 , I attached this basket directly to the side rails with some L channel and 3/8 carriage bolts. It's a little more work than using the cross bars, but it's rock solid up there. I can install or remove it in about 15-20 minutes. I did it this way so that I could leave it off whenever I don’t need it for awhile. I'm happy with it, and have no intention of changing to a different rack.

Link to build thread and a picture:

https://www.4runners.com/threads/th...ll-of-my-money-went.12919/page-16#post-263894

 

I’ve a 21 Venture which came with the Yakima box (call it whatever one wants). It made crazy noise so switched it to the TRD Pro rack. Now there is no noise and it holds whatever is needed.

Do as you wish just know certain roof racks result in noise.

 

I believe it's the Megawarrior basket.

Mine definitely produces some wind noise. But, I certainly wouldn't call it "crazy."

Maybe mine is quieter due to being a bit tighter to the roof.

The PRO basket looks decent. But, I can't see it being any good for hauling kayaks, or anything large.

My original basket was a second hand Thule MOAB basket, which initially had no wind fairing. That was definitely loud!

 

If you're only going to use it once or twice, look locally to see if anyone rents them. They'll know what fits on your vehicle and will have the parts you need and experience to mount it. Will be a less expensive way to get more temporary storage. The people I've seen who do this in my area advertise on Craigslist.

Alternately, a hitch mounted cargo carrier is an easier solution if you're not worried about rear clearance and the weather will not be bad. No wind noise, no effect on gas mileage, easy on and off. Multiple uses- everything from carrying firewood to luggage. Downside is everything is exposed to the elements.

 

My Yakama Skybox rubbed with the factory X-bars. LFD X-bars solved that issue. I now have a permanent reminder embedded in the roof paint. Loaded with camping gear.

 

That's brilliant, thank you. I definitely owe you a beer. I just found a place near me that rents Yakima and Thule boxes and provides all the appropriate mounting HW. Delivered, installed, and picked up. Perfect for me as I'll probably only use it once or twice.

 

I have a Thule that just clamps to the stock crossbars , not sure of the model # , it’s the longer one and butts against the rear antennae and just peeks over the sunroof. With the stock crossbars it only sits about an inch above the roof but here’s the trick I used , take a pool noodle and cut you a piece as wide as the Thule then split that piece and push it under the front edge of the Thule. No wind noise