Parts to Install Yakima 78 HD Crossbars and Watersport Carriers on a 2014 Jeep Wangler Unlimited

Question:

What Yakima parts do I need to mount 78inch Yakima HD crossbars to my 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited hardtop - no existing rails - just rain gutters ? My intent is to find the best system to load a 35” kayak and one or two 33” SUPs to my Jeep. Thank you!

asked by: Chris M

Expert Reply:

To use your 78" Yakima HD Crossbars, part # Y01159, on your 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, you will need the Yakima 42" Tracks, Skyline Towers, HD Bar SL Adapters, and Landing Pad 1s.

The Track Pads, part # Y01126, are designed for use on naked roofs (those without rails). They give a more flush look for the roof rack system. This will require some drilling into the hard top, but they allow you to slide the crossbars along the length of the Jeep.

The Skyline Towers, part # Y53TR, are designed to work with all Yakima crossbars and fit neatly in the HD bars' bottom channel when paired with the HD Bar SL Adapters, part # Y03541.

The Landing Pad 1, part # Y00221, fit into the Track Pads and allow for an easy connection to the Skyline Towers. I've included a video installation of this entire set with the 55" HD Crossbars. The installation will be the same for you.

Do keep in mind that the 78" crossbars are the longest option, so you need to be careful that they do not extend past your vehicle's mirrors.

On the other hand, if you'd rather utilize your rain gutters to set up your crossbars, Thule has a system that can work with your Wrangler Unlimited. Their Wingbar Evo Crossbars, part # TH711520, combined with their Rapid Gutter Feet, part # TH65BJ, will give you 60" of crossbar space with much fewer components. I've included a video installation of this setup on a 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

As for your kayak and SUPs, we have two products that will work great for whichever crossbars system you choose. For your kayak, I recommend getting the Yakima JayLow, part # Y04073. This carrier can carry one kayak in a J-style configuration or be positioned into Post-style to carry yet another kayak. It also leaves plenty of room on your roof rack for your other carriers. I've linked to a video review of this carrier.

For your SUPs, I recommend the Thule SUP Shuttle Stand-Up Paddleboard Carrier, part # TH811XT. This carrier can handle two SUPs and has an easy tie-down system. I've included a video review of this carrier as well.

Keep in mind that you need to consult your vehicle's owner manual for its weight capacity. When calculating, make sure to include the weight of the kayaks, SUPs, carriers, and the roof rack.