How to Secure Kayaks on Roof Racks
There are several ways to secure your kayak on your roof rack. To start, you’ll want to get the kayak straps over the top of the rack and thread them under the bars. Then, place the kayak hull side down on top of the rack. Thread the buckle end of the strap through the tiedown brackets, and then drape the strap over the near side of the kayak. Once secure, you’re ready to tie down your kayak. fishing kayaks with trolling motor
If you’re using a roof rack, you’ll want to buy some metal bars. These are especially helpful when you’re traveling with your kayak. If you’re using a plastic kayak, loosen the straps overnight so they don’t loosen. Make sure to re-tie the straps in the morning. Otherwise, you could damage the kayak. For maximum security, use a commercial roof rack system that has factory-installed metal bars.
The next step is tying down the kayak to the crossbars of the roof rack. You can use an allen wrench to tighten the crossbars. Use a rope to tie down the kayak. Once you’ve done that, you’re ready to install the kayak on your roof rack. Make sure to tie down the ends of the kayak straps to the crossbars, so they don’t shift while you’re driving.
To start, place your kayak hull-up on flat blocks. You can also use U-blocks. Place the kayak on top of one of these blocks. Make sure that it doesn’t tip front or back during transport. When tying it down, make sure that you have two people to hold the kayak for you. If you are driving with two kayaks, it is a good idea to use a ladder to help you lift the kayak onto the rack.
After you’ve secured the kayak, it’s time to strap it down. A good soft rack system will have bow-stern tie-downs and standard tie downs. You can also purchase some foam blocks if you don’t have any. These foam blocks can be used to secure the kayak on the roof rack. When properly secured, it will prevent it from rolling off at highway speeds.
Once you’ve secured your kayak, you’ll need to attach a cam strap or other strap to the roof rack. This strap passes underneath the crossbar of the rack. A cam strap buckle will form a U, with one strap on each side. Then, you’ll have to loop the other strap over the top of the kayak. The straps can unravel if they catch on something. To prevent this from happening, you should secure the rack with a rubber pad or something similar.
Depending on the type of kayak rack, you can purchase a foam block to secure the kayak to the rack. Foam blocks are a more economical option but can be finicky. Roof racks can come in many shapes and sizes. A J-shaped rack fits snugly over the kayak, while a more high-tech option lowers down to the ground for loading. A foam block can also be used with factory installed racks.