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Recommendation For Carrying 3 Kayaks On 2003 Honda Odyssey With Factory Side Rails  

Updated 07/09/2014 | Published 07/06/2014



Question:

We have a 2003 honda odyssey and we want to transport 3 kayaks. We have the factory installed front to back rails. From the research I have done so far, it looks like I still need crossbars with locks, 2 j carriers/racks, straps and crossbar pads. I heard that depending on the car and what brand rails you have on your vehicle will determine what crossbars you need to get so it is more secure. Do you know if this is true? I am a little overwhelmed of all the products out there...I dont want to get the wrong ones and watch out kayaks fly off the car. With all that said, Id like to keep costs at a minimum without risking security. One last note, we are also considering purchasing a roof carrier in the future. So Id like the crossbars to be able to hold that as well. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

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Expert Reply:

The first thing you will want to do is consult your owners manual or with your dealership to make sure you do not exceed the roof weight capacity for your 2003 Honda Odyssey. The weight of 3 kayaks would probably be more than the weight capacity of any of the roof racks we offer for your Odyssey.

If you are okay with a system for 2 kayaks I recommend the Yakima Roof Rack System. This system features round 48 inch crossbars that have a weight capacity of 100 lbs, which should be able to handle 2 kayaks. To order this system you will need to order part # Y00408, part # Y03536, and part # Y33TR.

For a roof rack carrier I recommend the Yakima JayLow, part # Y04073. It's a J-style carrier but it can still carry two kayaks. You'll need more tie-downs using part # Y04031.

If it is important to carry 3 kayaks at once I recommend a Yakima Rack and Roll Trailer, part # Y08106. Although quite a bit more costly, it would be far safer and easier to load and unload. This trailer has a 250 lb weight capacity, and features 66 inch Yakima square crossbars. The crossbar spread can be adjusted from 4 inches to 48 inches and will accommodate many different accessories.

A standard, 4-way flat, black rubber connector is included for connecting your lights to the towing vehicle.

If you have no hitch for the back of your Odyssey, I recommend the Draw-TiteTrailer Hitch, part # 75270. This is a Class lll hitch and has a 2 inch receiver opening. The ball mount kit I recommend is the etrailer Ball Mount, part # EBMK4. This includes the ball mount, and an interchangeable ball system that gives you either a 1-7/8 inch or 2 inch trailer ball, along with the pin and clip and a handy storage bag.

If you do not have a 4-way connector at the rear of your Odyssey I recommend the Curt Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, part # C55336. This easily and quickly with no cutting or splicing into the vehicle wiring.

When working with electrical connectors I recommend using dielectric grease like part # 11755. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the connections and helps prevent corrosion.

I would then recommend using the Thule Stacker, part # TH830. This is a post-style system that has a 4 kayak capacity. It comes with 1 pair of tie-downs, and 2 straps. If additional bow/stern tie-downs are needed I recommend part # 853-5466.

I have attached some links to videos for the products I recommended you can check out.

expert reply by:
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Jeffrey L
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