in article , John Fereira at
wrote on 5/27/04 7:57 AM:

"Chris" wrote in
:

All,

I'm new to kayaking and would like to know if the setup below will work
just fine? I have a factory rack installed. or would you still go for
the Thule setup?

http://www.prolineracks.com/riversid...k-carrier.html

The primary advantage of using the foam blocks is that they're inexpensive.
They work fine for the occasional trip, even a long trip. I carried a
fiberglass sea kayak on foam blocks from upstate NY to the Outer Banks and
back using foam blocks. However, to get the kayak secure it requires a
little more time and effort than it does with a yakima or thule rack. If
you're going to be paddling a lot, it pays in the long run to have a rack
system that is always on the vehicle. With the foam blocks you've got to
install the foam blocks first (not always real easy even though they claim
to have a universal fit) then put on the kayak. Depending on where you
launch you might even want to remove the blocks while you're out paddling.


I have only used foam blocks. The main reason that I don't want to have a
kayak support system installed to my rack is that I use the rack for many
other things, mostly construction material, plywood sheet, plastic sheet
etc.

To improve the foam block stability and security, using a band saw, I cut
the foam blocks to exactly match the contour of my hull where they make
contact. In addition, I cut a temporary bulkead out of styrene insulation
foam which I place just in front of the foot pegs in the cockpit (located
over the roof rack). The combination of contour cutting the foam blocks and
the temporary bulkhead allows me to really sinch that kayak down tight
without overly stressing or deforming the hull or deck. (hint: if you make a
temporary bulkhead, put about a 4" diameter hole right in the middle of it
so you can grab it to maneuver into and out of the kayak)

I installed nylon webbing loops under the hood for bow line attachment
rather than going all the way around the bumper to the underside of the car.
This shortens the bow line by about 3 feet keeping it tighter and prevents
the bow line from vibrating and rubbing on the paint.

Never had a problem on long trips at highway speed.

And I do remove the blocks while the car is parked while I'm paddling. Mine
pop on and off quite easily. I'm sure any foam block could be modified with
a sharp knife to be easier to pop on and off of one's rack.

Cheers!

DV