What Kind Of Aftermarket Roof Rack Do I Need To Install A Yakima SkyRise Tent On A 2017 Lincoln MKX

Question:

Yakima says I can install their system on my naked roof that will have capacity of 165 lbs. If so, is this sufficient and safe to install and use the Yakima Skyrise? Ive heard its about $2k to have rails installed so Im trying to avoid that expense.

asked by: Kaia

Expert Reply:

In order for you to install any of the Yakima SkyRise HD Tent for Roof Rack Crossbars, two person, part # Y07436, or three person, part # Y07437, on your 2017 Lincoln MKX it will need raised rails or rooftop tracks. I double checked the SkyRise Best Practices on Yakima's website and you will not be able to use either of these tents on your 2017 Lincoln MKX if it has a naked roof.

Most rooftop tents have restrictions that will not allow them to be installed on aftermarket roof racks installed on naked roofs. Fixed point roof rack systems, flush rails, or raised rails systems are the only options. Thule also restricts their rooftop tents from being used with any Thule clamp style roof rack.

If you were looking for a less expensive option, you can look into getting rooftop tracks installed on your vehicle. This will give you a fixed point roof rack, which is an acceptable option for a rooftop tent. I recommend you speak with someone in a body shop to make sure rooftop tracks are a viable option. If they are, you will need to install the rails of roof top tracks on your vehicle in order to carry a rooftop tent. You could install something like the Yakima Tracks for Roof Racks in the following lengths:

42", part # Y01126
54", part # Y01127
60", part # Y01135

Then you could install a Thule fixed point rack system. This rack will consist of the following items:

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Silver - 50" Long - Qty 2, part # TH711300
Rapid Podium Feet for Thule Crossbars - Fixed Point - Qty 4, part # TH460R
Fit Kit for Thule Podium-Style Roof Rack Feet - 3101, part # THKIT3101

The weight limit for this rack would be the same for your 2017 Lincoln MKX. You do not have to worry about the 165 lb weight limit. This is the dynamic weight limit which is used for when the vehicle is in motion. The static weight limit is used when your vehicle is at rest and it can be up to 7X higher than the dynamic weight limit. Your vehicle will be well within the maximum weight limit for the Yakima SkyRise, but you can consult the owner's manual for this information.

I have included product description links and a video review link below.