Question for guys who use Thule Hullavator Pro

[hogwild86]

Installed the Thule Hullavator Pro 898 on 60" Evo Wingbars and 450r crossroad footings but noticed a lot of wiggle in the arms. I wanted to check and see if this is normal or perhaps may have missed something during the install. It functioned correctly, was able to load/unload my kayak with ease. Below is a short youtube video of the arm/mount stability concerns.

Thanks

 

[hrjaw]

I have had mu Hullavator PRo for about 10 years now and have used it on multiple vehicles. It does have some play and when I don't have anything strapped to it, makes even more noise. I am talking about the Arm section, not where it attaches to the cross bars.

Roger

 

[llDemonll]

It's a giant lever on a small pivot point, I'd consider that hardly any play for how much leverage that arm has on the mounting point.

 

[hogwild86]

That makes me feel better about installing it, I was concerned that I had possibly missed something simple. It is very sturdy once mounted with a kayak in place. I appreciate the feedback!

 

[Whttxtrail]

Wiggle

I have mine mounted to Thule aero bars. I had bought them used and replaced the shocks. I had lots of wiggle with mine where they mounted to the bars and also were not level. They worked but not quite right. I purchased the small plastic spacers from Thule and it made things a lot better although the arms are still flimsy once they are deployed.

 

[BigHouseRed]

That makes me feel better about installing it, I was concerned that I had possibly missed something simple. It is very sturdy once mounted with a kayak in place. I appreciate the feedback!

How is your 60” evo wingbar and hullavator setup working out? Considering the same due to the 450 crossroad discontinuation. I’ve had two other squarebar setups since 1999. The 60” is larger than recommended but I prefer it.

 

[hogwild86]

Still going strong with no issues. I can get the Hullivator and the yak ready to go in ten minutes now. It is a great system if you are a shorter person

 

[PWGUNNY]

The hullivator gets the job done well, but its pricey. A low cost option is the Reese Canoe/kayak loader. You need a hitch receiver to use one, but it works and it is inexpensive. I use it on my 4th gen to load my Hobie Compass onto the roof. I use a trailer for local fishing, but if I go out of state, I use the roof loader and leave the trailer home. I recently used the loader to transport some 10ft planks home from the lumber yard.
I paid half the price for my Reese Kayak loader from Amazon when I bought it a year ago. It is now priced around $55 but still pretty cheap alternative.

Amazon.com: Reese Towpower 7018100 Canoe Loader - Black: Automotive