Options for Assisted Kayak Loading

Updated 05/28/2021 | Published 05/26/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Viking Solutions Rack Jack Magnum Hoist w/ Winch - 2" Hitch Mount - Steel - 650 lbs

(102)

$315.45

Wheel Step with Non-Slip Surface - 21" long x 9" wide - 300 lb Weight Capacity

(23)

$73.47

Rightline Gear Moki Door Step - 400 lbs

(146)

$35.47

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

(124)

$899.95

Question:

Two questions please: 1I am an older female looking to use this hoist attached to my trailer hitch to winch an 85 pound kayak onto my suv roof rack using a set of pvc rails to guide the kayak up and over the front hood of my suv onto the car rack. I’ve seen proof of concept on YouTube. Contrary to the use shown in the video, in my case the winch would be pulling the supported load kayak, bow first, on rails at an angle rather than vertically. Would this be a problem? 2 would I be able to replace the winch with a remote controlled powered one so that I could operate the winch from the front of my suv while I guided the kayak up the rails?

asked by: Beverley W

Expert Reply:

To answer your first question in regards to the Viking Solutions Rack Jack Magnum Hoist with Winch, # 310-VMH001, and "...pulling the supported load ... rather than vertically...". While an 85 lb. load may be successful, it has not been tested for that and is not the intended use. This is designed to support a vertical weight and pulling of the load over the vehicle does not allow the legs to provide support as intended. I do believe you can fabricate a mount to replace the winch with remote powered product.

However, before getting too far down the road with all this modification and fabrication of items I would like to suggest you review the Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Carrier and Lift Assist with Tie-Downs - Side Loading, # TH898. Please note the attached video of showing this in use. And if you need a step up we have products that assist with that too, such as the Rightline Gear Moki Door Step, # RL100660 or the Wheel Step # PT68ZR. Please consider this option and let us know how we can help further with supporting you with best options for your kayak.

expert reply by: Michael R