How to Transport Two 12 Foot Kayaks on Dodge Ram While Towing 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

I have a 2007 Ram 2500 4x4 Mega Cab that I tow a fifth wheel trailer with. I use a Anderson ultimate hitch so my bed is full. I want to add two 12 foot tandem kayaks for when we travel now that our kids our older. What is the best step up to look for? I have seen different systems that have goal post style holder near the front of my truck, but non will fit my kayaks which are 36inch at the widest point. What would you recommend for this setup? Thanks for your help,

asked by: Richard A

Expert Reply:

Because of the overhang from a 5th wheel trailer, your best and only option to secure two 12 kayaks to your 2007 Ram Mega Cab is likely going to be with a roof rack and front mount hitch/goal post style extender combination. Your 2 kayaks side by side hull down exceed the width of these type of extenders but what you can do is use a post/stacker-style carrier to secure them on their sides to take up less space (see attached image). Also keep in mind that where the kayaks will be resting on the extender will not be their widest point.

Starting with the roof rack for the cab of your Ram, I recommend the Thule Traverse Square Bar System that consists of # TH712500 for the two 60 inch Square Bars, # TH480R for the Rapid Traverse Foot Pack, and # THKIT1528 for the Fit Kit.

Then for a front mount hitch I recommend the Curt # C31017 that features a 350 pound vertical load capacity and is made right here in the USA.

This hitch will work nicely with the Rhino-Rack T-Load # RTL002 that uses a 49 inch load bar and an adjustable vertical post that you can move up or down to get even with the crossbars on the cab.

Now for the kayak carrier itself I like the Thule Stacker # TH830. These post-style mounts will secure to the Thule Square Bars on your truck and allow you to load up both kayaks on edge with the included tie-down straps. I recommend measuring the width of both your kayaks together when in this position just to make sure they will fit the roof rack crossbars.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this carrier as well so you can see exactly how it works.