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Name: StephenB

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As an update on my earlier reviews I'm pleased how the Slipstream 887XT has continued to be very useful in safely carrying my kayaks (one at a time) to various paddling spots. I particularly appreciate the support extension for the kayak found in this design.

One specific update is that I did not widen the factory rack spacing of my 2013 Subaru Outback from the earlier (relatively narrow at 24" found in my 2010 Outback). I didn't change things given the extended support of the Slipstream and I was concerned there might not be quite enough clearance mounting the Slipstream on the back (rear-most) crossbar and opening the rear hatch. I didn't see any advantage to change/widen the Outback crossbars although I will when transporting my canoe or perhaps using J-hooks instead of the Slipstream.

This update is further to my earlier (2) reports on the Thule Slipstream 887XT.
It was just a week ago, after returning from a great paddle on a local lake and unloading my kayak, that I noticed one of the front rubber pads had become loose. Fortunately I had not driven my Outback unloaded and so the pad was not lost along the road somewhere. I called Thule Tech Support to ask what kind of adhesive they used and/or would recommend to re-fasten the rubber pad. The pleasant representative had no idea/suggestion on what to use but that I'd likely find something suitable at a hardware or automotive store. I then called Lepage to speak with an adhesive expert. The equally pleasant and more helpful representative suggested I use their "Extreme Repair" product, which I purchased at Home Depot.

After removing the ineffective Thule adhesive and applying the Lepage product according to directions it seems to be thoroughly "stuck". I've since checked the other three pads on the Slipstream and they all seem a bit loose, so I may use the Extreme Repair on all four pads.

I've downgraded the Slipstream rating from 9 to 7 because of the lack of quality control -- first there was rust dripping from the metal tubing and now the pads are becoming loose.

Since my earlier comments (07-27-2011) I've used the Slipstream at least weekly and I continue to be pleased.

At first I wasn't quite certain about loading from the rear with the bow on the rear Slipstream rollers and the stern on the ground, but as I've done it a few times it has become easier and easier with lots of clearance and I no longer feel the need to muscle the kayak into the air and on to the racks for loading. Ideally I'd have some sort of mat on the ground or duct tape on the stern of the kayak which touches the ground (or I could park my 2010 Subaru Outback in a better/grassy location) so there were less chance of scratches but, given rocks etc. I've touched over the years while paddling, I'm not so worried. I'd echo knotbob's comments about spacing, etc. on the Outback.

I'm pleased with the Slipstream for ease of use, extra strength/spacing, and overall design.

I've happily used the Thule Slipstream 887XT for about a month now on my 2010 Subaru Outback, which has narrow/close factory racks (only 24" separation). I really like the fact the 887XT provides much more support for my 17' fiberglass kayak.

However, if one looks at parts 9 and 10 of the instruction manual (available for download at various vendor web sites) it suggests sliding the frame and roller as far back as possible, and it shows a user resting the bow of the kayak on the rear felt rollers while the stern is on the ground.

In reality, the rollers of the 887XT can't extend this far out from the rear of a vehicle like the Outback because such an extension would interfere with the rear door opening upwards. So, in practice, I lift the kayak onto the rear rollers (with or without assistance) and slide it forward while supporting the kayak in an elevated horizontal position about shoulder height. The 887XT would be well suited to a vehicle which has a rear door which opens sideways. If your vehicle has a rear door, like the Outback which opens upwards, then this should be a consideration.

As mentioned, I've used the 887XT for about a month when I noticed some rusty water on the Outback roof under a coupling nut. The nut was rusty. I suspect water/rain was getting in somewhere and running to the nut/hole where it was draining. I emailed photos and a copy of the invoice to Thule on a Saturday and a replacement 887XT rack was at my door on Tuesday entirely under warranty. I am impressed with Thule customer service!

In conclusion, I give high marks to the 887XT as a very useful kayak rack.