Does Installing Three Crossbars Increase Weight Capacity?

Updated 04/13/2021 | Published 04/09/2021

Question:

Does Installing 3 cross bars help increase the amount of weight you can carry, as appose to just 2 crossbars?

asked by: Kyle

Expert Reply:

While some people install a third crossbar for extra weight distribution or support for extra large items, it doesn't increase weight capacity. You will have three points of support with 165 lbs capacity, but it doesn't add to it.

The ONLY exception to this rule is the Yakima LockNLoad platform rack like # Y05047-39. If you increase the attachment points to the LockNLoad rack, you can increase the base weight capacity. The way that works is the platform has a "base" weight capacity when used with two crossbars like what most people do. However, if you add support towers or attachment points, you then get to support the platform's full and actual weight capacity. At this point, you are then limited by your vehicle roof or frame capacity.

In all other cases though (ladder racks, roof racks, etc), that is their actual weight limit and adding bars only adds to crossbar space.

expert reply by: Evangeline M