Cargo Box Question

[UnaBonger]

I have a 2008 Tribeca Ltd w/the Aero Cross Bars. I'd like to get a cargo box for the roof but am unsure of what makes/models will fit the seemingly wide crossbars... Are most of the cargo boxes universal as to what crossbars they fit onto?

Thanks

[Super]

We have the same vehicle. You can purchase a set of Thule "Crossroad Foot Packs" #450, and ditch the original cross bars however most new boxes have attachments that will fit over the wider original bars. We have a newer box, a "Mont Blanc" which is basically a Thule copy at half the price purchased from Mountain Equipment Co-op. It fits the wide bars, no problems. You can log into the Thule site and input your vehicle for options.

[BzB]

lol @ op's screen name.

[Bullroarer Took]

Yakima also has a set of landing pads that will do the trick. I installed those and an Inno cargo box that still allows me to 1) open the tail gate fully, 2) fit in my 7 foot garage and 3) stack windsurf board on the other side of the rack.

So I agree with poster #2: ditch the aero bars and get some real flexibility as well as strength.

[UnaBonger]

I'm thoroughly confused now... The Aero bars are considered crap? I'm assuming the regular (round) cross bars create a lot more noise when attached to the car, no?

[Bullroarer Took]

I don't know if they're crap or not, but the aftermarket bars will allow you to use more of the roof's width and carry more weight. They probably are more noisy, especially when bare.

I can't give you a complete list of boxes that will fit the bars AND allow the tail gate to open, but it is a concern. My Inno Stream box will work on the aero bars though.

[Super]

I'm thoroughly confused now... The Aero bars are considered crap? I'm assuming the regular (round) cross bars create a lot more noise when attached to the car, no?
The original bars are not "crap" they look good, and give you the ability to attach a ski box, bike racks etc but if you want/need greater strength and flexibility to attach options, the Thule/Yakima options are the way to go.

I have 60" bars that attach soundly to the side rails and can carry two canoes with no worries, not possible (or safe) with the OE cross bars.

If all you want to do is attach a box, get one that fits the OE bars, if you need more strength, go aftermarket.

I don't notice a noise difference between the two either.

[UnaBonger]

The original bars are not "crap" they look good, and give you the ability to attach a ski box, bike racks etc but if you want/need greater strength and flexibility to attach options, the Thule/Yakima options are the way to go.

I have 60" bars that attach soundly to the side rails and can carry two canoes with no worries, not possible (or safe) with the OE cross bars.

If all you want to do is attach a box, get one that fits the OE bars, if you need more strength, go aftermarket.

I don't notice a noise difference between the two either.

Thanks! That clarifies a lot for me :)

[Super]

Thanks! That clarifies a lot for me :)

The wind noise from the bars is unnoticable, what with the clunking sway bar bushings and the various squeeks and rattles that eminate from the rear seat.