Has anyone ever put one of those soft cargo steel horse type carriers up between the factory cross bars. I know the weight limit is 75lbs. But with no center slats, I am leaning towards the idea that the roof wont hold. They dont sit on the cross bars. it sits directly on the roof and is secured with tiedowns to the cross bars. Taking a trip to Florida from NJ and would hate to look up and see the roof folding down or the cross bars flying off somewhere in South Carolina. I have though about adding the Thule cross bars for other applications, but in this case they would be of no real advantage if the roof cant support the cargo carrier.

 

I removed the factory bars and replaced them with Thule bars. I haven't been able to confirm this, but I think the 75lb limit is because of the flimsy way the facotory bars attach to the roof rails. It appears that the Thule system is much more secure. The Thule mounts use a rugged steel tab (heavier and larger than the tabs on the factory bars), and attach with 2 allen screws each, instead of the single thumb screw on the factory baars. I think the Thule rack will support more than 75 lbs. I can't comment on how strong the roof is.

Hope this helps.

 

Nothing should be on the flat of the roof. Earlier RX came with length-wise rubber slats (for paint protection) and some owners thought that it can take the weight. Lexus quickly discontinued the length-wise slats.

The weight can be put on the width-wise slats, which is then transferred to the edge of the roof and down the pilars. Stay with-in posted limits and you should be OK. [I would venture to state that even if you instal beefy Thule slats do not exceed the limit on the factory slats as that very well can be the limit for the roof/pilars etc.

If you have a tow hitch, I have seen a 2'x4' cage that can go there.

Salim

 

I do have the cage carrier for my 2" hitch. It works great. Excellent for larger coolers and camping gear. I have been so used to being able to pack the roof cargo carrier with stuff though. Will take some getting used to. The good news is that there is adequate cargo space inside for duffle bags like I used to throw up on the roof. Much more than in my Durango when the 3rd row of seating was in use. I am sure it will all work out.

Thanks