Removable truck kayak rack.

[aznflycaster]

Spent the better part of the day workin on a kayak cradle. I'm posting these pics because I know there is a pretty good size group of kayakers and hopefully someone might be able to use the ideas, and or advise me in something they see I could change. The rack was made out of 1"x1" steel and a chain link is welded to the upright post. I used a turn buckle on each corner to keep the rack in place. The reason for cradle is to spread the weight out better with the strap, because the kayak was starting to get some dents from where it sat upside down before. I also mounted 2 tie down points under the hood that I also made with the scrap metal. Good thing is I have about $90 bucks total in the rack and cradle. If you see something that would make it better, that I over looked or missed please advise.

 

[milltown]

Looks good, I was just wondering if the kayak sways back and forth like when you brake or accelerate.

 

[willyredeemed]

wow, that's a sweet setup!

 

[aznflycaster]

There are straps that go over the kayak and strap it to the rack. I did notice last night when braking hard the front rope to the bumper goes a little slack. Today after work I'm gonna run it thru its paces and see how it really works. When I got done last night it was dark. Also thought about putting a rope in the back but the angle of it will pull it forward instead of pulling it back, because the kayak Sticks out about 3 ft past the back bumper.

 

[limbhanger]

Nice, I need to build a rack for my truck.

 

[milltown]

There are straps that go over the kayak and strap it to the rack. I did notice last night when braking hard the front rope to the bumper goes a little slack. Today after work I'm gonna run it thru its paces and see how it really works. When I got done last night it was dark. Also thought about putting a rope in the back but the angle of it will pull it forward instead of pilking it back, because the kayak Sticks out about 3 ft past the back bumper.

I see them now in the second picture.

 

[Sultan of Slime]

Looks good. Is that a nu canoe?

 

[aznflycaster]

Sultan I wish it was a nu canoe, Its a cheapo Pelican Castaway 116. Good starter boat for budget minded people, but Im so ready to upgrade right now.

 

[walkinboss01]

I built a rack that mounts in my truck receiver. It just extends my truck bed so I can carry longer items without having them fall out. I will post some pics later on.