Kayak Rack Ideas?

[FDM2012]

So, I am trying to figure out what to do about hauling my kayak.

With the vehicle already being 9 1/2 feet high, putting it on top will probably be close to 12 high by
the time mounts and kayak are up there. Other than building and using an excursion trailer to tow behind,
not sure I have any other options.
I guess I could get one of those articulating ladders to help with loading and unloading.

How are some of you guys hauling a kayak or canoe on a tall rig?

 

[flightcancled]

You're adding 3.5 feet in height!? Even on it's side a normal kayak isn't nearly that wide.

I'd instal D-links and strap it face(deck) down. You'll add less than 2ft in height, burn the least amount of fuel, and if you add a cockpit cover the boat is now a dry gear storage area.

Edit: This is also the best method for the structural integrity of the boat. Your kayak will be fine spending all summer every summer up there as long as you can live with some rub marks.

 

[moosevan]

I'm using the Thule Hullavator Pro. It still requires a ladder or stool to fully lift it up then requires tiedowns on the front and rear.

Cheapest way is to get one of those telescoping poles and put one side on it and walk the other side up a ladder. I think Rhino makes one.

I've seen a video of a guy using a rolling bar in the rear like for ladders and pushing it up while walking up a ladder.

 

[FDM2012]

12 - 9.5 = 2.5. (30'') My kayak is a meager 26'' wide. I'm not sure how much height any type of brackets will add.
So that is where I came up with about 2.5 feet. Not sure where you got 3.5 feet from....??

I like the idea of it being flipped upside down, but would need to figure the best way to do it. I don't really want
the kayak laying on my solar panels.

Thx for the input.

You're adding 3.5 feet in height!? Even on it's side a normal kayak isn't nearly that wide.

I'd instal D-links and strap it face(deck) down. You'll add less than 2ft in height, burn the least amount of fuel, and if you add a cockpit cover the boat is now a dry gear storage area.

Edit: This is also the best method for the structural integrity of the boat. Your kayak will be fine spending all summer every summer up there as long as you can live with some rub marks.

 

[FDM2012]

I dig this set up!

The Thule is a little pricey for my blood, so maybe I will get my MacGyver on!

Thx!

I'm using the Thule Hullavator Pro. It still requires a ladder or stool to fully lift it up then requires tiedowns on the front and rear.

Cheapest way is to get one of those telescoping poles and put one side on it and walk the other side up a ladder. I think Rhino makes one.

I've seen a video of a guy using a rolling bar in the rear like for ladders and pushing it up while walking up a ladder.

 

[Captn-See-Had]

I too am looking for a kayak solution... How long are the kayaks you want to transport? Im thinking a vertical hitch mounted rack may be the answer. Should work for the shorter whitewater kayaks I am looking to haul. Something like this (not my photo):

 

[Bbasso]

I've seen some really good deals on the Hullavator on CL in the past, I would personally go that route if I had kept my Tarpon 120.

 

[Corneilius]

I can run one boat flat, but 2 boats have to sit on edge. Puts me at about 10' 6" IIRC. Isn't a problem other than a slight sail effect on the interstate and the occasional low hanging tree branch. I have 2 rods that pivot up that I strap them to, works pretty well. I need to photograph my latest mod that Bbasso helped come up with. Added a solar panel that slides out when I carry my boats, and slides back in to stay protected.

Throw them on the roof and strap them down, grab a telescoping ladder if you don't have one hard mounted.

 

[FDM2012]

My current kayak is 12' long.......

I too am looking for a kayak solution... How long are the kayaks you want to transport? Im thinking a vertical hitch mounted rack may be the answer. Should work for the shorter whitewater kayaks I am looking to haul. Something like this (not my photo):
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