Does Yakima SlimShady Awning Require Crossbars to Install

Question:

Hi, is it possible to install the awning on bar that is parallel to the awning? It seems the only option is to install on the crossbars but I don’t have crossbars on my arb roof rack. Thanks.

asked by: Edmund F

Expert Reply:

The Yakima SlimShady Awning - Roof Rack Mount - Clamp On # Y36VR does require a pair of crossbars with at least 24" of spread in order to mount. As you can see by the cut out of the instructions I added, this is how it secures to your vehicle's roof and would not work on a bar parallel to the awning.

There is an option for an awning that does not mount to a roof rack, the Thule HideAway Awning - Direct Mount - Waterproof - 55 sq ft # TH490018 and Thule HideAway Awning - Direct Mount - Waterproof - 80 sq ft # TH490011.

As you can see by the linked installation details these awnings do attach directly to your vehicle; I recommend taking a look at the instructions so you can see exactly how it works.