Recommended Roof Rack and Kayak Carrier with Load Assist for 2017 Toyota Highlander  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

We've definitely got what you're looking for, from the roof rack to the load assist kayak carrier.

For the roof rack, I recommend using the Rhino Rack Roof Rack kit that uses parts # RRVA150S-2 (59" bars), # RRRCL4, # RRRCP31-BK. This rack would give you 59" bars, which is the next biggest size available after 54" and I would be concerned that going up to the 65" long bars would put too much of the bars outside of your flush mounted side rails and create issues with weight distribution/center of gravity. This kit will mount in the fixed mounting points on your flush rails and I really like Rhino Rack products since they're just as high quality as some of the big names and you get them at a better price.

For the kayak carriers, I recommend using the Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier and TelosXL Load Assist # MPG114MD-351XL, which is a J-style carrier that helps reduce the amount of space the boats take up on the roof; this is especially important when carrying more than one boat. This kit also comes with the TelosXL Load Assist system that will help you get your boats onto the roof. Since this only comes with one set of J-style carriers, you'll want to add another Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier with Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Side Loading # MPG114MD to allow you to carry a second boat; the TelosXL can be used on either side of the vehicle, so you'll just swap that from side to side when loading or unloading.

I've linked some review videos of these parts for you to have a look at and see how easy they are to install and use.

expert reply by: Erik B

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