Will the Malone Foam Kayak Block Fit a 1-13/16" Square Truck Bed Extender Crossbar?

Updated 05/15/2026 | Published 05/06/2026

Question:

How would your foam block for kayak work on my truck bed extender? The crossbar is 1-13/16 square. Thanks

asked by: Paul A

Expert Reply:

Hello Paul,

Great question, and this is a pretty common setup people try to make work.

The Malone Foam Kayak Block # MPG159 is designed to fit over standard round or square crossbars, but it works best with bars that are about 1-1/4 inch wide or smaller. Since your truck bed extender crossbar is 1-13/16 inches square, it’s quite a bit larger than what the slot in the foam block is intended to accommodate. In most cases, that means the block won’t slide on as-is.

That said, some folks do make it work by carefully modifying the foam opening. Because the material is fairly dense but still flexible, you could trim or widen the slot slightly using a sharp utility knife to better match your crossbar size. If you go that route, the key is to remove just enough material so it fits snugly without becoming loose, since you still want the block to stay secure and properly cushion the kayak.

After looking through the other foam block options we carry, most of them are designed around similar crossbar sizes, so you’d likely run into the same fitment issue. Because of that, modifying the # MPG159 ends up being the most practical solution for your setup.

Let me know a little more about your setup and how often you’re planning to haul your kayak. Are you gearing up for some local paddling trips or heading somewhere a bit farther out?