Kayak Carrier for Fishing Kayak on 2011 Ford Escape with OEM Crossbars
Question:
Hi, I have a 2011 Ford Escape with the OEM elliptical shaped crossbars. I would like to install a carrier for my fishing kayak and have already bought a Malone J-Pro 2 J-Style Universal Car Rack Kayak Carrier. When installing it I noticed that it doesnt sit straight on the crossbars due to the way they are shaped and the slightly slanted way they need to be installed. Is there a different option that would work better for my needs? Thanks
asked by: Peter K
Helpful Expert Reply:
I've seen factory aero-shaped bars have a slant to them like you're describing and it can make items that only fit to one bar sit crooked. Accessories that attach to both bars, like a cargo box, are okay because when they grab both bars they sit level.
In my opinion your best option is to replace your factory crossbars, especially since you already have the Malone J-Pro2, part # MPG117MD. The AirFlow2, part # MPG215, is a great economical option that fits both the Escape and the J-Pro2. It mounts to the side rails and takes the place of the crossbars.
My only hesitation with just replacing the crossbars is the possible weight of your kayak. Fishing kayaks tend to be heavy, and even heavier when they're loaded and who wants to completely unload it every single time? The J-Pro2 cradles max out at 75 pounds which often isn't enough for the big fishing kayaks so we normally recommend a saddle or wing carrier like the MegaWing, part # MPG207. The MegaWing can carry up to 150 pounds.
The problem with the MegaWing is it still probably won't sit level on your bars. So if you're kayak is heavier than 75 pounds I recommend replacing both the cradles and the crossbars for the best setup.
Products Referenced in This Question
Malone MegaWing Fishing Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Clamp On
- Watersport Carriers
- Fishing Kayak
- Kayak
- Roof Mount Carrier
- Saddle-Style
- Aero Bars
- Elliptical Bars
- Factory Bars
- Round Bars
- Square Bars
- Rear Loading
- Clamp On
- No Load Assist
- Malone
more information >
Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars - Raised Side Rails - Aluminum - 50" Long - Silver
- Roof Rack
- Complete Roof Systems
- Aero Bars
- 50 Inch Bar Space
- 2 Bars
- Overhang
- Silver
- Malone
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Malone J-Pro2 Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Fixed Arms - Clamp On
- Watersport Carriers
- Kayak
- Roof Mount Carrier
- J-Style
- Fixed
- Aero Bars
- Elliptical Bars
- Factory Bars
- Round Bars
- Square Bars
- Side Loading
- Clamp On
- No Load Assist
- Malone
more information >
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