Can I Place Bunks MPG561 On The Malone 2nd Tier Load Bar System MPG474?

Question:

Hello, follow up to the 2nd tier rack. Could I place bunks on the 2nd tier instead of the suggested Kayak Tie-Down Kit # e36ZR for the 3rd Old Town sportsman PDL 120? If so could I find out the total weight for the Bunk Kit for Malone Trailers - 1 Kayak Item # MPG561. I could not find a listed weight. Also would I need additional straps other then the supplied cam straps. Thank you

asked by: Puvieng

Expert Reply:

Hello again and thank you for your questions. To answer your first question, yes, it is possible to place the bunk kit # MPG561 on the 2nd Tier Load Bar System # MPG474. That said, the bunk kit weighs about 23 lbs, so that combined with the 90 lb kayak will put you over the 100 lb weight capacity for the 2nd tier system.

My recommendation would be to use a simple crossbar pad like the Malone Rack Pads # MPG314, along with the tie downs of your choice (such as the etrailer Tie Down Kit # e36ZR). The rack pads weigh less that one pound so virtually no added weight. I would use a total of 4 straps for the top kayak though. One strap at each crossbar and then a bow and stern tie down. We have a Bonafide SS127 which is a fairly similar fishing kayak which I have transported in this way many times and it has worked great. We actually just place the kayak directly on to the crossbars and tie it down. The crossbar pads are really just there to protect the boat.

expert reply by: Jesse M