Question:
Im in the process of buying a 2006 fleetwood tioga RV 10foot tall . I paddle a Tsunami 145 14.5 feet long about 65 lbs Is a hullavator going to be a good solution for me? What would you consider to be an optimal solution for carrying my boat? Thanks!
asked by: Bryan P
Expert Reply:
The Thule Hullavator, part # TH898, is a great option to transport your kayak on your car/SUV with a roof rack. However, there is a specific method that you will have to employ to do this.
As I said above, this kayak carrier is a roof-rack-mounted carrier that transports the kayak on your car's roof. Roof racks cannot be attached to an RV, so if you are towing your vehicle behind your 2006 Fleetwood Tioga (or if you are towing the RV behind your vehicle), then you can utilize the Hullavator.
On the other hand, if you are only driving your RV, then you need to couple a carrier with a kayak trailer. I recommend the Malone EcoLight Sport, part # MAL53FR. This trailer can handle kayaks up to 14 feet long and has a weight capacity of 400 pounds. In this case, you won't need a carrier with a load assist, so something like the etrailer J-Style Kayak Carrier, part # e98878, will do the trick.
The trailer would connect to your RV's hitch. If your Tioga doesn't have one, then I recommend the Curt Adjustable Width, part # 13703. It adjusts from 22 inches to 72 inches. I've linked to a video installation of this hitch for your consideration.
Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs, 22" to 72" Wide
etrailer Kayak Carrier w/ Tie-Downs - J-Style - Folding - Clamp On
Malone EcoLight Sport Trailer - 58" Crossbars - 400 lbs
Thule Hullavator Pro Kayak Roof Rack and Lift Assist w/ Tie-Downs - Saddle Style - Universal Mount