Transporting Outback--Roof

How do you transport your Outback on roof? Do you always use bow and stern strap downs. what rack supports? etc. I plan to haul long distances 8+ hrs. Suggestions or things to not do?

Upside down on padded crossbars is the way to go for roof topping an Outback. Depending on the spacing of your crossbars, you may not need bow and stern tied downs. For smaller cars, or vehicles with crossbars close together it's smart to go with bow and stern tie downs.

Something like the Rhino Universal Side Loader (part number 72040011) helps the process of getting it situated on your roof.


72040011
RHINO UNIVERSAL SIDE LOADER
US$ 149.00

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Howie Strech
Parts & Accessories Product Manager
Hobie Cat USA

Thule Hullavator is a great option. Not cheap, but well worth it. I always use bow and stern straps. They are life lines if the main straps loosen or the rack gets compromised. Cheap insurance.

When transporting my Outback by roof rack, I use the Yakima boat loader. Gunwales down. I personally prefer the loader on the rear rail. It's fairly inexpensive, and although it appears flimsy, I have had mine since the mid 2000's, through three Outbacks, and never had a problem. Personally, I always use a bow line (a habit left over from my canoe days) as an early warning system. One suggestion when using the boat loader is load the Outback in the grass to alleviate scratches to the hull. All that being said, I normally use my Rack and Roll for longer distances.