frtzw906 wrote:
Michael Daly wrote:
On 18-Mar-2005, "BCITORGB" wrote:


See what you think about this: I cut deep into the 2x6 crosspiece
(rectangular cut) and then create a sling using a fairly wide
webbing
strap (perhaps 1.5" wide to correspond to the 1.5" cross-section of
the
2x6).


===================

PROGRESS REPORT

The sling idea bit the dust, as the hull-shaped cuts into the 2x6's
worked quite well.

Today I u-bolted the roof contraption onto the factory r-rack. Not
elegant (a function of my lack of woodworking skills), but when
you're
working with 2x6's and 2x4's, there's room for some error and
elegance
goes out the window (I find solace in "form follows function" -- it
functions).

What impressed me, once I got the frame bolted down, was that there
was
absolutely no squeaking (which I had anticipated). I had thought that

the 2x4-on-roof-interface would "squeack".

In the case of my roof, there are 4 "channels" lengthwise along the
roof. I have constructd the frame in such a way so as to have the 2x4

logitudinal pieces fit into these channels (luckily, these channels
are
just over 1.5" wide, so a very nice fit).

Once I'd mounted the frame, I decided that wing-nuts were what were
required for the u-bolts -- another trip to the hardware store...

Next project: glue the foam rubber to the hull-shaped cut-outs in the

2x6 cross pieces. So, a question to all of you who have had a part in

this design: what's the best glue for attaching foam rubber to wood?
Ordinary wood glue?

As I look at this thing you guys had me create, I realize an added
benefit. With 4 corner posts, mounted somewhere in the yard, the
frame
will also serve as a place on which to "store" the kayak when it's
not
on the van. Pure genius, people.

Thanks.

Wilf
++++++++++++++++



Mike

Wilf, Good to hear that things are still coming together!

I might suggest that instead of wingnuts, you check out "nuts with
nylon inserts" which you don't have to worry about working their way
loose.

Wing nuts are convienent for you, but also for the thief in the parking
lot who won't have much of a challenge to remove your boat, rack, and
the whole kitnkabboodle! Won't you be putting the rack on and off the
van once per season. Use a wrench that one time, though I realize you
think you are power tool challenged, I am sure that we can talk you
through how a wrench works. Especially the kind with no power cords
attached!

Your last suggestion about the four post in the yard, may be genius???

Where were you planning on storing your boat anyway? Outside, or in the
Garage? I don't know whether it is a good idea to store in the sun
which will cause UV damage eventually. And especially if it is always
stored in the same position. The best idea is clean out the garage so
that you can get the boat in there, and then have a garage sale for all
that good stuff you won't be needing now like lawn mowers and snow
blowers. Take the extra windfall of cash and buy the two wetsuits, and
go kayaking. The lawn can wait, if the neighbors don't like the long
grass, tell them they are welcome to mow it for you! Regarding snow, It
will melt off the drive come Spring! TnT