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I drive a 2002 Ford Explorer. Currently, I am carrying my kayak on my roof rack using the universal foam pad and strap system. It does the job but not the most efficient system. I want to invest in a decent roof rack system. I have looked into a few Thule and Yakima systems. But I could use some good advise / reviews / opinions from folks who actually have a roof rack system that works for them. FYI, I am looking for system that makes it easy for me to lift the kayak onto the roof rack.
Thanks,
Tricia
I'd suggest looking at a system that has rollers for the rear and traditional saddles in the front. Thule has saddles (Set n Go) that would fit on your '02 Explorer factory rack. I don't know if you can find rollers for the rear without have to install crossbars. I have two sets of Set-n-Go saddles on my factory roof rack of my car. I secure a one yard square of carpet scrap on the top of the back hatch so I can rest the kayak up there, then grab the rear and slide it up the top of the hatch on the carpet, and over to the saddles. If you have a spoiler on the rear hatch that could be a problem, but not a deal breaker. Both Thule, and Yakima have interactive gear guides. http://www.rackattack.com/shop-rack-brands.asp But shop locally. ACK, SW Paddlesport, FTU and REI should be able to get you going. Good luck.
Thanks for the advise. The Set n Go saddles sound like a good plan.