Proper rack for large kayak / canoe

[ryandc]

The high-level requirement: Tote an 18' tandem touring kayak on the roof, including down some rough roads. Total weight of boat is about 90 pounds.

The rig: 1999 SR5 4wd 5-speed with a very mild lift and factory roof rack with factory cross bars.

The question: In some research, I've found that the suggested method is to (A) replace the factory roof rack cross bars with something sturdier from Yakima or Thule, and (B) Get an additional Q-Tower (inserts into front door?) set up on the front doors, then (C) either strap the boat upside down onto padded rails or use a designated carriage to hold it right side up on the roof.

Does anybody do anything similar that can share how they accomplished it? Hitting the Yakima and Thule web sites, they seem to be pretty limited in indicating what works best with what vehicle application.

Thoughts and suggestions would welcome.

 

[Team_Jake]

The high-level requirement: Tote an 18' tandem touring kayak on the roof, including down some rough roads. Total weight of boat is about 90 pounds.

The rig: 1999 SR5 4wd 5-speed with a very mild lift and factory roof rack with factory cross bars.

The question: In some research, I've found that the suggested method is to (A) replace the factory roof rack cross bars with something sturdier from Yakima or Thule, and (B) Get an additional Q-Tower (inserts into front door?) set up on the front doors, then (C) either strap the boat upside down onto padded rails or use a designated carriage to hold it right side up on the roof.

Does anybody do anything similar that can share how they accomplished it? Hitting the Yakima and Thule web sites, they seem to be pretty limited in indicating what works best with what vehicle application.

Thoughts and suggestions would welcome.

I did a trip to Baja a couple of years ago carrying a ~75lb tandem kayak directly on factory cross bars, just used straps to tie everything down. Other than the drag which was incredibly strong at highway speeds (especially in windy Baja), the roof had no issue holding everything.

As long as you have good tie downs / mounting system, I don't see why you couldn't use the factory cross bars.

 

[Kanoe]

I often carry our 17.5 canoe around. I find the factory cross bars to be a little weak and narrow for the application. I now have a set of Thule bars that bolt into the factory roof rails, they are very sturdy.

The roof rails are pretty short for a large boat like yours. I’d look into the front rail also solutions. My buddy had this set up on his second gen years back.

 

[GhostRing]

A single Yakima Baseline (essentially the updated Q Tower) tower/crossbar on the bare roof and a single Skyline tower/bar in the OEM track would be great for keeping the canoe better centered on the roof.
The Baseline should really stay put where the instructions indicate, but the Skyline can move anywhere in the track to fine-tune the boat's position. That should be suitable for about 165lbs. dynamic load.
I only mention Yakima kits because they offer their Baseclips and Landing Pads per bar - unlike Thule, who supplies full fitkits regardless of tower style or location.
And use your bow & stern straps!

 

[giguchan]

I had to re do my Thule system because i like to keep my Bike, kayak, and Thule rod carrier up there. The Bars are a tad long for the runner and look goofy but i had no choice.. I would show photos.... but I'm not going through all of that. PM me and i'll share through Email if interested..

 

[ReconcileUs]

I've always wanted this half rack in black

3rd Gen 4Runner Half Roof Rack | 1996-2002 4Runner | Sherpa Equipment Co.

They also have a full rack version but it's more expensive and doesn't look as sleek in my book.

 

[giguchan]

I've always wanted this half rack in black

3rd Gen 4Runner Half Roof Rack | 1996-2002 4Runner | Sherpa Equipment Co.

They also have a full rack version but it's more expensive and doesn't look as sleek in my book.

Dude,
That Rack is waay damn cool! is it capable of kayak,bike,fishing Thule racks?
The nearest proper wheeling place from me is 200 mi away- I wish i could justify that.