Car top carriers

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Gary on July 27, 2011 at 12:37am

My experience with the foam blocks is I bought a set about 2 years ago and have never used them. Sorry, I know that doesn't help you but I'll be interested in the helpful comments you recieve.

Permalink Reply by Geoff Jennings on July 27, 2011 at 7:25am

I'd consider the foam blocks an OK situation on a temporary basis, but nothing beats a Yakima or Thule rack for convience and their secure nature.  The only issue with them is the price.  It's $3-400 with accessories.  Ouch! But they will last a long, long time.  my current rack still has elements on it that I bought for my jeep in college, 20 years ago.  I've certainly gotten my money's worth!   

 

With the yakima system, they sell a pretty slick accessory called the side loader, than means you don't have to lift the whole boat, just one half at a time. Works pretty well for loading and unloading the boat solo. 

 

 

Permalink Reply by Shuswap Kayaks on August 4, 2011 at 12:22am

Hallo Linda

About your question whether to use the conventional foam block or not, I would recommend to you to stay away from them. They put too much pressure onto your car roof and can dent the metal because of their small size.

Save the $40 bucks and buy a thick piece of foam mattress or foam from a camping outfitter the size about 4x4 feet. Put your yak onto the foam, open all doors and run your cam or ratchet straps through the interior of your car. Once secured, you can close the doors as the webbing can be easily pinched in in the door frame between the rubber seals. If you are not sure the kayak is secure on your roof, run additional straps from the bow to your front bumper and from the stern to your rear bumber. A larger foam piece about 3-6 inches thick will secure your boat and not damage your car roof. Good Luck and Happy Paddling!