Roof Rack Recommendation for a 2016 Ford Explorer with Sunroof and Roof Rails

Question:

I am looking for the roof rack system for my 3 kayaks. 1.Do you have any recommendation which I can choose? 2. What is the capacity of the roof rack?

asked by: Sean

Expert Reply:

The weight capacity of most of the roof racks is 165 pounds but you're going to be limited by the capacity of your Explorer's roof. I took a look at an online copy of your owner's manual and it states that you're limited to only 45 pounds with the moonroof. Check your printed copy to verify. If it's correct then you'll only be able to carry about 30 pounds on a roof rack because most racks are roughly 15 pounds or so.

If you can carry kayaks on your 2016 Ford Explorer that has flush rails and a moonroof I recommend the Yakima JetStream crossbars, part # Y00425. Then to attach the bars to the Explorer's roof use the SkyLine towers, part # Y53TR, and Landing Pads, part # Y00245. Since you have a moonroof I think the JetStream bars are a great option to help reduce wind noise.

Then to carry all 3 kayaks I recommend Thule's The Stacker, part # TH830, because it can carry up to 4. You'll need extra tie-downs, I like the Thule Quick Draw Tie-Down Ropes, part # TH855XT, because of the ratcheting. The Stacker comes with standard tie-downs for one boat so you need 2 extra sets, or you can get 3 of the Thule Quick Draws and have the easier to use ratchets on all of them.

I also recommend getting 3 sets of the Malone QuickLash Hood Loops, part # MPG308, to make it easier to find tie-down points.