Recommendation on How to Carry Kayaks With Hard Tonneau Cover on Truck

Question:

I have a Ford F150 with a short bed. I need a ladder rack that I can use in conjunction with my classic undercover tonneau cover that I can use to carry a couple kayaks. has a fitting at the base that might be modified to get under the lip of the classic undercover edge and if i use a no drill clamp on the inside bed rail, it might hold the rack piece in place. My only other thought is if I can get someone to fabricate a custom rack. Any thoughts? Thank you. Mike

asked by: Mike

Expert Reply:

Having a ladder rack and a tonneau cover can be challenging because of the clearance each one needs. Looking at the hard cover, and the Erickson Over-The-Cab Truck Bed Ladder Rack # EM07707 you referenced I don't think that they would be compatible without major modification. Usually the tonneau cover or ladder rack will mount inside or on top of the bed rails, but they can't occupy the same space.

I do have another option that would not involve any modifications to your tonneau cover. The Darby Extend-A-Truck Kayak Carrier w/ Hitch Mounted Load Extender and Single-Bar Roof Rack # DTA944-968-924. This will allow you to keep your tonneau cover and use a hitch mounted load extender to carry the kayak above your truck. You just need a 2" trailer hitch receiver on your F150.

It comes with the load extender that mounts right to the hitch, a single roof mounted load bar that will support the front of the kayak, and 1 foam block to provide a resting point. Tie down straps are required and sold separately.

If your carrying more than 1 kayak with you, you may want to pick up another foam block for support, like the Malone # MPG172. This block is 24" long which is 6 inches longer than the block that comes with the Darby Extend-A-Truck Kayak Carrier.

I linked our tie downs straps, and a review video of the carrier for you to check out.

expert reply by: Robert C