How To Secure Kayaks On 2020 GMC Sierra 3500 While 5th Wheel Towing

Updated 12/08/2021 | Published 12/06/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima JetStream Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 70" Long - Qty 2

(605)

$269.95

etrailer Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On

(222)

$129.99

BaseClip Fit Kit for Yakima BaseLine Roof Rack Towers - Qty 2

(895)

$74.95

BaseClip Fit Kit for Yakima BaseLine Roof Rack Towers - Qty 2

(895)

$74.95

BaseLine Towers for Yakima Crossbars - Naked Roofs - Qty 4

(89)

$274.95

Question:

I have a 2020 GMC Denali Crew Cab 3500 SRW and in need of a roof rack system to carry my 12 Kayak. There are no racks on the roof now just clear roof area. I tow a 41 fifth wheel and need 2 foot clearance at the back between the kayak and the RV cap. What would your suggestion be? What would be the minimum spacing between the racks and the maximum forward overhang of the kayak. Thank you for your recommendation.

asked by: Herb H

Expert Reply:

Generally speaking, you'll want the kayak centered in the carrier but you can push it a bit further forward if you have potential clearance issues with say the nose of a trailer. That said, there aren't really specifics on the overhang, you'll just need to use your best judgment. There will however be exact spots the crossbars will be installed as these are the points on the roof that the rack manufacturer deem strongest. The Yakima JetStream Crossbar System composed of part # Y00427, part # Y28TR, part # Y27FR, and part # Y06124 is what I recommend. It will then pair nicely with a carrier such as the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier part # e98878. This kit has a bow/stern tie down so you can move the kayak a bit further forward in the cradles then you could normally therefore you should be able to clear the trailer nose.

We can't really provide specific measurements unfortunately as there are too many factors and variables.

expert reply by: Conner L