Highest Weight Rated Lift Assist Kayak Carrier for Roof Rack

Question:

Hi, I have a 4Runner which I am looking to put the LFD crossbars on it. I am also looking carry 2 kayaks that weigh approximately 85lbs each. I am wondering if there is a load assist that will accommodate this setup?

asked by: Matthew M

Expert Reply:

Hey Matthew, is there anyway to get 5 lbs out of the kayaks? The highest rated lift assist kayak carrier is the Yakima ShowDown # Y04081 which is rated for up to an 80 lb kayak.

Otherwise you'd have to go with a J-style carrier like the etrailer part # e98878 which is rated for up to 150 lb.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Matthew M.

8/6/2024

If I were to use the Yakima showdown on my 4Runner, would I need to get crossbars that extend past my factory roof rails, or can I get crossbars that do not extend past.

Jameson C.

8/6/2024

@MatthewM Good question! And my apologies for not mentioning that earlier as I assumed your bars did extend past the towers of the rack. For that the most cost effective solution would be the Malone AirFlow2 part # MPG216 which will attach to the side rails on your roof currently.

Matt

10/7/2024

A while ago I had asked a question about the Yakima showdown kayak assist for my 4Runner. Would I be able to put two Yakima showdowns on my roof? And if it’s possible, what length crossbars would I need to do this ?

Jameson C.

10/7/2024

@Matt So the Showdown is 42 inches long overall but a good portion of it can overhang past the ends of the crossbars. So with the Malone crossbars I mentioned you'd be good.