2013+ model Rooftop Cargo Carriers and 5th Gen

[jim4runnerny]

I've searched the forum, and foud a lot of good threads on compatibility (or lack thereof) of the rooftop carrier boxes and the factory roof rack with the factory cross bars. I have not seen any recent posts though, and the Yakima and Thule seem to have new models.

At the Yakima website, it currently notes that they are no boxes that are compatible with the 5th gen factory cross bars.. however, I have seen past posts where users have installed the Skybox 16 successfully, without hitting the tailgate or antenna. I wonder if the design has changed, where they no longer recommend it?

As for Thule, their website says pretty much all their models will work with the factory setup, however looking at the design of the cases, it seems like they would hit the antenna (they all seem to have a "dip" in the design at the front and the rear now, probably to add a few more cubic inches or storage). The only model that does not have the dip is the Pulse L 614, which looks like the saftest option for fit, however I'd like to go to the Pulse XL 615 (or the Force XL 625) as they are a bit bigger.. I am just concerned about the antenna (not reception, just hitting it).

Have any of you recently purchased one of these carriers for your factory setup on the 5th gen? If so, any feedback would be appreciated. I already have the factory rails, so I'd like to avoid buying an additonal set for this... I only plan on using the carrier for summer vacations with the family. Also, I have not yet tried to visit a retailer for a test fit.. I figured I'd try here first.

Thanks,
Jim

 

[bimrunner]

They do in fact hit the antenna using the factory crossbars. I solved this when i had my stock rack by using my thule crossbars and moving it as far forward as possible. This got the roof box up a little higher to clear the antenna. Be careful however, of the liftgate... it can rub depending on how big your box is. Adjust it so that it sits as far forward as possible.

 

[Ryan1975]

I was planning on using the carrier that I had bought and used on my Explorer previously. Dang...now I need to test fit it this weekend before my monster 5,000 mile road trip this summer.

 

[mace.]

I did what [MENTION=89562]bimrunner[/MENTION] said.

 

[GeoffCalv]

I have the Thule Force Alpine 623 that I use in the winter for my skis. In my case, with the stock crossbars, the back of the box clears the antenna. I do however have to have it all the way forward so that it does not rub the spoiler on the tailgate when it is open.

Another thing to mention is that, in my experience, the quick grip system on the Thule boxes does not mesh well with the crossbars and the box feels loose. They are tight to the bars and not going anywhere but the box doesnt feel locked down and slides forward and backwards. Hard to describe without pictures and my box has been put away for summer. This might just be an issue with my box though.

 

[Miguelon]

I've searched the forum, and foud a lot of good threads on compatibility (or lack thereof) of the rooftop carrier boxes and the factory roof rack with the factory cross bars. I have not seen any recent posts though, and the Yakima and Thule seem to have new models.

At the Yakima website, it currently notes that they are no boxes that are compatible with the 5th gen factory cross bars.. however, I have seen past posts where users have installed the Skybox 16 successfully, without hitting the tailgate or antenna. I wonder if the design has changed, where they no longer recommend it?

As for Thule, their website says pretty much all their models will work with the factory setup, however looking at the design of the cases, it seems like they would hit the antenna (they all seem to have a "dip" in the design at the front and the rear now, probably to add a few more cubic inches or storage). The only model that does not have the dip is the Pulse L 614, which looks like the saftest option for fit, however I'd like to go to the Pulse XL 615 (or the Force XL 625) as they are a bit bigger.. I am just concerned about the antenna (not reception, just hitting it).

Have any of you recently purchased one of these carriers for your factory setup on the 5th gen? If so, any feedback would be appreciated. I already have the factory rails, so I'd like to avoid buying an additonal set for this... I only plan on using the carrier for summer vacations with the family. Also, I have not yet tried to visit a retailer for a test fit.. I figured I'd try here first.

Thanks,
Jim

Skybox 21 Pro fits perfectly w/o hitting antenna. I have it pictured here with factory rack and upgraded CamelBak Metal Gear by Drabbits

 

[DesertDog]

I recently purchased the Yakima Skybox 16 for my 2012 Sr5 on OEM rails. Although most threads here indicated that it was a perfect fit, it interfered with my rear gate opening despite having it installed as far forward as possible. Also, I was not happy with the way its claws attached to the roof cross bars, as they would scratch the roof.

I returned it to REI in favor of the Thule Sonic L, which is a 100% perfect fit that does not interfere with either the antenna fin or the rear hatch. Also, its claws are much easier to use than Yakima, and do not get close to scratching the roof as you close them. The Thule is slightly quieter as well. However, it is also slightly smaller.

 

[Trails4]

Skybox 21 Pro fits perfectly w/o hitting antenna. I have it pictured here with factory rack and upgraded CamelBak Metal Gear by Drabbits

When you had the Skybox 21 mounted on the factory rack, did you have any issues with clearance for the rear spoiler? Sounds like the 12, 18 and 21 are questionable at best (all the longer option over the 16...)

Most folks say they are mounting their crossbars all the way forward, but did you also slide the box clams all the way back (effectively sliding the box forward as much as possible?) At least from the angle of your photo, it looks like it might have cleared, even if by a 1/4"...

 

[Miguelon]

When you had the Skybox 21 mounted on the factory rack, did you have any issues with clearance for the rear spoiler? Sounds like the 12, 18 and 21 are questionable at best (all the longer option over the 16...)

Most folks say they are mounting their crossbars all the way forward, but did you also slide the box clams all the way back (effectively sliding the box forward as much as possible?) At least from the angle of your photo, it looks like it might have cleared, even if by a 1/4"...

It did barely fit with everything slid ALL the way forward....hope that helps

 

[T4RDriver]

Using Toyota crossbars, my Yakima Skybox 16S does not contact the satellite antenna once the bars are adjusted and the Skybox is oriented properly fore & aft. The top of the rear hatch does very slightly touch the rear of the Skybox lid when open but it doesn't interfere with use.

 

[Trails4]

It did barely fit with everything slid ALL the way forward....hope that helps

Certainly does, glad to hear that it didn't hit! Thanks for the clarification.

I had a feeling that even the longer boxes could be pushed forward enough for the rear hatch to open all the way. I've done this on a few other vehicles with rear hatch spoilers and as long as there's no touching, even if its just 1/8" gap... we're good. :thumb3:

For anyone who may be worried about some rubbing using the factory rails, check out 3M 2229 Mastic Tape - you can find it at most DIY box stores. Rubberized tape that's extremely sticky and can be applied to the box clamps, etc to protect from any hard scratching. I use it on bikes to protect the chainstays and it's never failed me.

 

[apollo]

we just acquired a sonic alpine, i'll get some pics when we take it out next...fits with thule crossbars moved forward

 

[LightRanger]

Certainly does, glad to hear that it didn't hit! Thanks for the clarification.

I had a feeling that even the longer boxes could be pushed forward enough for the rear hatch to open all the way. I've done this on a few other vehicles with rear hatch spoilers and as long as there's no touching, even if its just 1/8" gap... we're good. :thumb3:

For anyone who may be worried about some rubbing using the factory rails, check out 3M 2229 Mastic Tape - you can find it at most DIY box stores. Rubberized tape that's extremely sticky and can be applied to the box clamps, etc to protect from any hard scratching. I use it on bikes to protect the chainstays and it's never failed me.

I'm calling BS on the Skybox 21 fitting on the factory bars without hitting the spoiler--unless the mounting tracks that the claws slide on are farther back than the 18, which is certainly possible. I had a Skybox 18 on my 2013 SR5 on Friday and it wasn't even close to clearing the spoiler using factory crossbars. It cleared the sharkfin, but barely. It essentially rested on it in the center stiffening channel on the bottom of the box. The 18 and the 21 are the same length. And, yes, I had the crossbars all the way forward.

Thule Sonic XL (2" shorter than Skybox 18 and 21 per manufacturers) and Force XL (8" shorter than Yaks) both clear on factory bars with plenty space on both the the spoiler and the fin. Mounting brackets are farther back. Both these boxes fit skis up to 198cm per Thule, which was my issue.

 

[KostyaK]

Sorry to revive an old discussion. I have recently purchased a SportRack Expedition roof cargo carrier. Before buying I was trying to find any info on this forum and found none. Hoping this will help someone.

This model I believe is only sold in Canada but is very similar to their Horizon model (of equivalent volume, this one is 16 cubic ft). Installed on 2015 with factory cross bars.

The box fit without any major issues. Clears the antenna (I could have pushed the box forward more from what is shown). I may end up drilling another four holes (one per clamp) and that should give about an inch clearance. Reaching in to tighten down the knobs inside the box may get difficult, depending on ones height a ladder may be required. I managed without it - I am 5'10". The box is not too heavy - generally I would say one man's job to mount.

While driving the wind noise is noticeable - I imagine this applies to any roof box.
I have not traveled with it packed anywhere yet. This is based on a quick install and test drive.

 

[dromilly]

Thule Sonic Alpine

I just went to Re-Rack in Portland, OR and had them test fit the Thule Sonic Alpine on my 2015 4Runner using the FACTORY crossbars. With the bars moved all the way forward the box clears the antenna and is within 1/8th inch of the roof using Thules supplied mounting system. The rear of the box barely touches the hatch when open.

I plan to (1) live with it touching the hatch, as it does not "push" on the box or (2) modify the mounting feet along the slides to get me a couple more inches. How to modify...switch the slide mounts from one side to the other so that the loop/hook is on the front side instead of the back...then cut 'er off..1.5 extra inches (cue sick pun).

The box extends over the sunroof and comes about in line with the windshield. I inquired about that much exposure and was gladly reassured that it should not be a problem.

I am beyond excited as I have been in the search for a box that low profile that will allow me to squeeze into my parking garage at work - which is max height of 7'. I measured with the box on and the total distance from floor to peak of the box is 83" - so 1" to spare.

Hope this helps others searching.

 

[Cymon]

Using Toyota crossbars, my Yakima Skybox 16S does not contact the satellite antenna once the bars are adjusted and the Skybox is oriented properly fore & aft. The top of the rear hatch does very slightly touch the rear of the Skybox lid when open but it doesn't interfere with use.

I have the same box but I would highly recommend Thule aerobars, Yakima equivalent or a different full rack. It just allows for everything to be pushed above the shark fin and not interfering with the tailgate. You also don't have to worry about scratching the roof of the vehicle when trying to get the clamps under the factory bars. If you get the 53" bars you can load stuff on the side of the carrier as well. Here is my setup with the Yakima 16 pro skybox, paddle board and longboard. I wouldn't be able to do this with the factory bars.

 

[sf jakey]

I have a skybox 18 on my 11 and it hits the spoiler, but so what? I open it gently and i can still access the rear standing up. Not sure what the worry about hitting the spoiler is.