Stock cross bars or Yakima system?

[spotdog14]

I know this isn't towing int he traditional sense but one of the reasons to have our Explorer is to transport our kayaks. Now the question is the Explorer that we are looking at does not have the factory cross bars just the rails. Would it be better to get the factory cross bars from a junk yard or invest in the railgrab from Yakima since I already have a Yakima cross bar for my Fusion?

Any thoughts?

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I don't think JY rails would be practical, you'd have to drill holes to mount them- the threaded inserts aren't there on vehicles not equipped with rails. If there is an aftermarket clamp on alternative, that's what I'd do.

 

[spotdog14]

I don't think JY rails would be practical, you'd have to drill holes to mount them- the threaded inserts aren't there on vehicles not equipped with rails. If there is an aftermarket clamp on alternative, that's what I'd do.

Actually the junk yard rails wouldn't really be the rails just the cross members since the rails are already on the vehicle. Sorry for the confusion, I should have been more clear. Basically should I find a sent of OEM cross bars or get an after market set from Yakima? Since I already have half the equipment for the Yakima ones it would only really cost me about $100 which is what I am assuming buying new OEM crossbars would be.

 

[thebrakeman]

The Yakima crossbars will have MUCH more capacity. Most factory crossbars are plastic, and are really intended to contain cargo (like a soft cargo bag) between the bars. However, with the right equipment, they can support only up to 2 bikes, and maybe 1 kayak (?).

The Yakima (or Thule) crossbars are rigid steel tubing coated with a tough rubber. With these locked into your rails, they will support 4-5 bikes depending on length, and are better suited to holding weight.

 

[spotdog14]

The Yakima crossbars will have MUCH more capacity. Most factory crossbars are plastic, and are really intended to contain cargo (like a soft cargo bag) between the bars. However, with the right equipment, they can support only up to 2 bikes, and maybe 1 kayak (?).

The Yakima (or Thule) crossbars are rigid steel tubing coated with a tough rubber. With these locked into your rails, they will support 4-5 bikes depending on length, and are better suited to holding weight.

Thanks for your reply. I think you just sold me on going the Yakima route instead of trying to find some OEM crossbars. I will be carrying two kayaks so I need the extra supported weight.

Thanks again.