On 16-Mar-2005, "Tinkerntom" wrote:

Anyway, back to your rack, I would look into using a 2x4, U-bolted on
top of the existing rack to the side runners, and allow the 2x4 to

Depending on the roof curvature, you might need a 2x6, but - don't
put the wood on the existing rack. Cut one side of the 2x6 to
match the curvature of the roof, cover with a layer of thin carpet
or strong, closed-cell foam and then rest it on the roof directly.
U-bolt it to the rack crossbar. Make one for each of the front
and rear crossbars.

This way, the wood carries the load directly to the roof and the
existing cheap factory rack only holds it in place. You can
attach almost anything to the 2x6 to tie down canoes, kayaks
etc.

Don't have the wood extending past the side of the vehicle any
more than legal. Use a piece of old wood hockey stick to make
an extender and use a couple of long bolts to stick into holes
in the 2x6 to temporarily hold it in place.

Use cedar for the 2x6 and you don't have to finish it. No
problems with rot or insect damage for years.

Mike