Thule Box

[leonberger]

I need some advice on which Thule roof-mount box to buy.  I need to free up the trunk for the puppy that will be joining us next month and want to keep 2 golf bags, some tennis racquets and two sleeping bags in a rooftop box.

I like the look of the new Evolution series. But I can't figure out if I need the 1800 (which is 91" long) or the 1600 (which is 76" long).  I don't own skis and I don't want to cover the sunroof!

Anyone know if two golf bags will fit into the 1600?

[Art]

Leonberger,

At 76" long and 2" wider than the Evolution 1800, I'm sure the 1600 would accommodate your cargo. However, judging by the photo below of the XC outfitted with an Evolution, it does'nt seem possible to avoid covering the sunroof, regardless of which box you choose. Mounting the box further to the back of the car will look out of balance and also impede the opening of the rear hatch.

On the upside, mounting it to either side of the car will at least provide an open view to one of the front passengers. http://xc70.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

http://www.geocities.co.jp/MotorCity-Rally/5292/DVC000391.jpg
http://www.geocities.co.jp/MotorCity-Rally/5292/DVC000501.jpg

[leonberger]

Thanks, Art!

Do you know what size the box in the photograph is?  It seems narrower than the Evo 1600.  As you point out, it
also covers the entire length of the roof!

Thanks again...

[Art]

Leonberger,

You raise a good point. The box does seem too narrow to be a 1600. At 33" wide, the 1600 should almost cover the entire width of the roof. My guess is that it's probably an Evo 1200 which happens to be 10" narrower. Sorry for the confusion. http://xc70.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif

[Gundo]

Get ready for some serious wind noise with a rocket box...just adding load bars had adds significant wind noise.

Brendan

[leonberger]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I'm putting an Evo 1600 on the car tomorrow with the new Thule 754 mounting kit.

I'll let you know how loud it gets. Especially next week when I make the always enjoyable Memorial Day weekend drive down I-95... http://xc70.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif

[Art]

Excellent Leonberger,

Look forward to seeing some pics of your box if you ever get the chance. BTW, it can't be any worse for noise than having a couple of these strapped to your roof. http://xc70.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
http://www.geocities.co.jp/MotorCity-Rally/5292/art41.jpg

[leonberger]

Okay, so I put the box up today.  Didn't have a camera handy, though.  The 754 kit (cross bars and fee) goes up in seconds.  The box required a little bit more work but it goes on snug.  It is ridiculous how much stuff the box can take....

On the highway it was noisier than usual, but nothing the stereo couldn't drown out.

Thanks everyone!