Kayak Load Assist for Jeep Wrangler Roof

Products Featured in This Question

Question:

We have a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL, with Jeep roof racks on it. Wed like to get something to lift both kayaks onto the roof. The kayak racks field and stream we have load them vertically. Right now we have to use a step ladder to load and then tie off and sometiimes the places we put in are too steep for me to help load them since Im short. Any suggestions?

asked by: Jane

Expert Reply:

I have a few solutions for you. The first one is using your current roof rack and kayak carrier setup while using a step assist like Powerbuilt Adjustable Tire Step # ALL647596. This gives you a large step that attaches to your tire to help with loading and unloading of your kayaks.

The Rightline Gear Moki Door Step # RL100660 is another option. It hooks into your door's latch and provides a step to give you better access to your roof. This style is nice because it allows you to reach the middle of your vehicle a little better compared to the tire step.

Another option that uses your current roof rack is the Malone DownLoader Kayak Carrier and TelosXL Load Assist # MPG114MD-351XL. This is a J-style kayak carrier that would hold your kayak's in the same position you currently carry them but it comes with the load assist adapters. I attached a video below that shows how this configuration works.This is very helpful when getting your boats loaded and unloaded but the assist arms can be a hassle to store in your vehicle.

The Thule Hullavator # TH898 is the nicest kayak carrier with load assist available but it needs a very specific roof rack setup. To carry two of these you would need to install Yakima's Round 78" Crossbars # Y00411 and to attach them to your Jeep you would need Yakima's 1A Raingutter Towers # Y00101