Can I Use Crossbars Wider Than My Vehicles Roof

Question:

I have a 2008 Toyota Camry. The Yakima Q Tower Roof Rack comes with a 58inch bar. Is it possible to order this system with a longer bar? I want to transport 2 canoes, 28 inch width and 36 inch width. I would also like to use the KeelOver for both canoes. The combined weight of both canoes is 80 lbs. The width of the Camry is 71.7 inches. I believe I can carry both canoes using the KeelOver system for both with a 78 inch bar. What do you think?? thank

asked by: Alan P

Helpful Expert Reply:

As long as the crossbars you use aren't wider than the widest part of the vehicle (usually the mirrors), which could be a safety problem or even illegal in some areas, you could certainly use longer crossbars than the 58 inch crossbars.

Since your Toyota Camry's roof is 71 inches wide at its widest point using 66 inch crossbars like # Y00410 would be just fine. You could also use the 78 inch bar like # Y00411 and cut it down to 71 inches. Whether this will be long enough will depend on the size/width of your canoes.

The Camry roof will have a weight capacity of 100 lbs, so with 80 lbs canoes, plus the roof rack and the KeelOver, it sounds like you will will very near the weight limit of your roof.

expert reply by: Chris O