Wanted to share with others the problem and solution to fit my older Thule Evolution box to the OEM Rhino Rack crossbars. I purchased the box around 2013. I don't think Thule makes them anymore and the quick clamp system seems to have evolved a few times as well. Newer Thule models with the newer Power Click clamps may not be an issue.
The main issue for me was the quick clamp system (shown below) used a u-bolt that was too narrow to fit under and around the Rhino Rack crossbar.
I found the Thule T-track adapter kit 697604 and ordered it thinking it might work. This kit contained (4) T-track bolts that fit the 20mm track, (4) plastic clamps that help spread the load on the Thule box floor, and (4) thumb screws to tighten everything down.
I wasn't 100% sure how to remove the Thule quick clamp from the box, but I found if you pull up hard enough, they just pop off without breaking anything. Below image shows the T-track bolt sticking up through the Thule box, with the plastic clamp (load spreader), thumb screw, and old quick release clamp sitting above them. Note there are two holes in the plastic slider thing to accommodate the original u-bolt. I plan to cover one of the holes with duck tape to help keep water out.
This picture shows the Thule T-track adapter in place.
Overall, seems to be a good, sturdy solution. The only fussy part is lining up the t-track bolts with the holes on the bottom of the Thule, but even that wasn't too difficult even for a one-man show.
Hope this helps others.
The main issue for me was the quick clamp system (shown below) used a u-bolt that was too narrow to fit under and around the Rhino Rack crossbar.
I found the Thule T-track adapter kit 697604 and ordered it thinking it might work. This kit contained (4) T-track bolts that fit the 20mm track, (4) plastic clamps that help spread the load on the Thule box floor, and (4) thumb screws to tighten everything down.
I wasn't 100% sure how to remove the Thule quick clamp from the box, but I found if you pull up hard enough, they just pop off without breaking anything. Below image shows the T-track bolt sticking up through the Thule box, with the plastic clamp (load spreader), thumb screw, and old quick release clamp sitting above them. Note there are two holes in the plastic slider thing to accommodate the original u-bolt. I plan to cover one of the holes with duck tape to help keep water out.
This picture shows the Thule T-track adapter in place.
Overall, seems to be a good, sturdy solution. The only fussy part is lining up the t-track bolts with the holes on the bottom of the Thule, but even that wasn't too difficult even for a one-man show.
Hope this helps others.
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