Load Assist Loading 2 Kayaks on 2 Vehicles

Question:

Hi, I have a 2010 Lexus RX350 and a 2012 Toyota RAV4, both with factory racks. I want to drive to our mountian house, mount either car with a rack system for two kayaks and remove the rack system when leaving. I am debating between the Hullavator and the ShowDown. The Yakima Timberline rack system Y00147 and 421 seems to fit both cars with easy removal of the roof rack and the kayak racks as one unit. Questions 1 can 50 bars, Y00421, work with both cars and both kayak rack systems with the require overhang? ShowDown units look to long 2 Why the delay on getting the Hullavator? I am open to other rack system suggestions for these two cars and the desired use, Thanks Dave

asked by: David W

Expert Reply:

I have a couple of solutions for you. Neither the Hullavator nor the ShowDown units are a 2-kayak solution. The are too wide for two kayaks. If you want a solution for assisted loading AND 2 kayaks on one vehicle, you should consider the Malone “Downloader” # MPG114MD-351XL kayak load assist with J-style kayak racks. This product includes the loading rails and J-racks for one kayak. For the other side you can purchase the Malone # MPG114MD, which is the J-racks only. You can use the loading rails from the other side.

Like the the other choices, these will require roof front to back rails (which you said both vehicles have from the factory) and side to side cross bars that attach to the rails. In this case I was able to find cross bars that would work on BOTH of your vehicles and are quick to install and uninstall. I recommend the Thule # TH7502B-TH7502B.

expert reply by: Les D