Recommended Carrier for Transporting 4 Kayaks on 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Question:

Can you clarify your comparison of the various stack kayak carriers referenced on https://www.etrailer.com/question-366261.html - Im looking to carry three 36 lb. kayaks and one 76 lb on the top of my Jeep Wrangler Unlimited or Honda Pilot. - If I were to add 4 more foam blocks or not use any blocks, could I use the Malone to carry 4 kayaks? - Do the other brands of stack kayak carriers have higher weight limits than the 50 lbs. per kayak mentioned with the Malone? Thanks!

asked by: James T

Expert Reply:

The Malone Stax Pro2 Kayak Carrier # MPG115MD lists a 2 kayak capacity as determined by the manufacturer. You could technically add another kayak on each side of the posts by using some additional Foam Blocks # MPG168 but this hasn't been tested so I don't recommend doing this. As you mentioned this particular carrier features a 50 pound capacity per boat anyway so it would not work for your application.

Your best option is going to be with the Thule Stacker # TH830, which features the same post-style design as the options you mentioned but doesn't have a listed weight capacity. You will need some additional tie-down straps # 753-2030-02. The only restriction is that the kayaks cannot be longer than 10 feet.

I have attached a video demonstration and the written instructions manual for this carrier that you can check out as well.

One other thing I do recommend verifying is the weight capacity of your Jeep's roof. This should be listed in the owner's manual but you can also find out by contacting your local Jeep dealer. You will want to make sure that both it and the crossbars you have mounted are capable of handling the 184 pound combined weight of all your kayaks.