Using cross bars with cargo box
Thread Starter
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 12,517
Likes: 628
From: Charlotte NC area
2019 WS222 S450 4-Matic / 2007 W211 E350 4Matic (Sold) / 2008 X164 GL320 CDI
Using cross bars with cargo box
(Cross posted from X164)
Has anyone used the factory cross bars to hold a Thule box?
It looks like they come with a rubber strip in the track where the t-bolts go.
Do you just pull that out, or do you really NEED the "Carrier Base" for a box?
Has anyone used the factory cross bars to hold a Thule box?
It looks like they come with a rubber strip in the track where the t-bolts go.
Do you just pull that out, or do you really NEED the "Carrier Base" for a box?
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 311
Likes: 74
From: Richmond, Virginia USA
'12 E550, '10 ML350, '06 E350, '20 GLC300, '21 GLC300
I have a Thule box. I opted for the traditional AeroBlade and Rapid Crossroad foot because I had two different SUVs I need to fit. For simplicity, they have the Aeroblade Edge but you are a tiny bit more limited on usable bar area.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 431
Likes: 4
From: Cross Roads, PA
2008 ML320CDI
Here's mine. Its an older box, I think I got it in 2003. I did replace those PITA U bolts with the later grab type locks ( see B in this link, you also need to get C) http://www.thule.com/en-us/us/support/spare-parts?p=29710&sc={2524BA1A-0F83-48E5-A6B5-63B5FFCC2B5B} they use on the newer box. Fits perfectly around the bar. That rubber strip just slides out if you want to use the attachments that use the center trough.
I dont have any close ups.
I dont have any close ups.
Last edited by 06e320cdi; Dec 18, 2013 at 09:55 PM.
