Recommended Roof Rack To Mount in Rain Gutters on Hard Top of 2020 Jeep Wrangler JL to Carry Kayaks

Updated 09/28/2020 | Published 09/24/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack SG Roof Rack for Rain Gutters - Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black

(97)

$349.99

Rhino-Rack Universal Load Assist - Crossbar Mount - Side Loading - 132 lbs

(123)

$199.99

Thule Stacker Kayak Roof Rack w/ Tie-Downs - Post Style - Folding - Clamp On

(66)

$219.95

Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount

(114)

$899.95

Question:

I need to carry two kayaks on my two door jl..... I have not purchased the kayaks yet. But I’m looking at maximum 50 pounds each. I would like a recommendation, or recommendations for something easy to install. The top is naked and want to mount in rain gutters and would like to use the Hullavator if possible. Thank you

asked by: Alan

Expert Reply:

I will start off and say that you're going to want to use the lightest possible components here since the rain gutters on the hard tops of the Jeep JK and JL models are not as long as those on the Unlimited JKU and JLU models; this is going to reduce the capacity a bit and you won't want to load it with as much weight. I would try to keep your setup under 120-lbs total with the bars, carriers and boats if possible.

I've got the perfect solution for you that will be both light weight, functional and good looking with the Exposed Racks Roof Rack for Jeep JL, JLU, and Gladiator Hardtop - Square Bars - Steel - Black # ER77FR. This is a gutter mounting system that weighs around 24-lbs total, so it's a great light-weight option that will allow you to safely carry your boats.

For the kayak carrier, I recommend using the Thule The Stacker - Rooftop Multi-Kayak Carrier # TH830, which will fit on the Rhino-Rack bars and weighs 8-lbs. The Stacker comes with 2 straps, a ratcheting tie down and pads to protect the buckles from damaging the vehicle. This setup is going to provide you with the most lightweight possible roof rack and kayak carrier combination.

In regards to the Thule Hullavator # TH898, my main concern is that these weigh approximately 45-lbs total (22.5-lbs each), so they're going to add a lot of unneeded weight on the bars. However, if making the loading of the boats is the main concern here, you could use the Rhino-Rack Universal Load Assist - Crossbar Mount - Side Loading - 132 lbs # RR-RUSL, which is compatible with Thule square bars. This would be an easy to use load assist that just connects to the bars and allows you to lever your boats up onto the crossbars and can be used easily with the Stacker.

I've linked some review videos of these parts for you to have a look at, but I would pay close attention to the weight you put on the rain gutters, so as not to overload them.