While No epic brake caliper trim or subframe lift in scope. Here is just a quick solution to the roof rack Thule roof box conundrum for those who are looking to use one with the other.

By raising two of the crossbars using 9/16” spacers and 35mm M6 bolts (shortened by about 3mm), the roof box will be able to grip the bars with ease.

This is just a test fit using what I have on hand. The bar is rock solid. No play whatsoever. I’m going to source some 35mm Stainless steel M6 Torx T30 bolts, trim them with a Dremmel by ~3mm and I’ll be all set.

The spacers are left overs from a TV wall mount but you could stack washers for the same result. I like the plastic ones as they wont scrape the roof rack gutters.









Cheers! Not a bad way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon.

 

That looks like a Thule Motion. What size do you have?
Trying to figure out the perfect size, I really like the Thule Vectors but they may be too sleek and slim for the Defender.

 

I have the XL.

https://www.thule.com/en-us/cargo-ca...xt-xl-_-629806

 

Looks Like Simon and co at PowerfulUK have a more elegant design. Just saw this today.

 

With the Thule Pacific I didn't need to modify anything.

 

Thanks for the step-by-step guide. Also - one of my favourite German beers too.

 

Nice setup! Is it because it's smaller so no modification is needed?

 

We bought a Yakima at the last REI Madness sale. On the flat rack, the clamps came to within an inch or so of full clamp. Seemed like it was sufficient, and nothing moved the one trip we took. But, for piece of mind, I went with the Simon and Co. lifts. Clamps close completely.

 

@RogueRover Thanks for the info and pics! Can you share where to find the “Simon and Co. lifts?” Much appreciated!

 

I have an older Thule box and it fit better without the lift. I bought those parts from Powerful UK but took them off because the only point of contact was the bar and without them the flat part of the box rests on the other rails. This an older Thule Box can not recall how old.