DIY kayak lift assist? Hullavator?

[kirkdavis]

Originally Posted by oredith

after looking the loader types some more, I came to the conclusion that making a complicated contraption for side load is probably a net loss on the cost:benefit front. I think instead, I'll try to load from the back hatch, and maybe extend the yakima bars if needed.

this is the current thinking:

I made one similar to the Rhino T-load hitch mount, and I like it for my outback onto a CR-V. It also works for two yaks with J hooks, but not quite as easy. Two differences from your design that you might consider. Instead of rollers, make the t bar wider and put a wide cargo strap across to nest the yak. Then you can slide it to either side for loading onto J hooks. Also, like the Rhino, I can lower the T-bar to about 45 degrees to make it much easier to get the nose of the kayak onto the strap. Then as you push the kayak up, the T-bar moves up so the yak clears the roof. It saves on the high up work. If you need I can send a pic of mine later. Good luck.

[oredith]

Originally Posted by kirkdavis

I made one similar to the Rhino T-load hitch mount, and I like it for my outback onto a CR-V. It also works for two yaks with J hooks, but not quite as easy. Two differences from your design that you might consider. Instead of rollers, make the t bar wider and put a wide cargo strap across to nest the yak. Then you can slide it to either side for loading onto J hooks. Also, like the Rhino, I can lower the T-bar to about 45 degrees to make it much easier to get the nose of the kayak onto the strap. Then as you push the kayak up, the T-bar moves up so the yak clears the roof. It saves on the high up work. If you need I can send a pic of mine later. Good luck.

I'd love to see how your's is set up.

i actually had not seen the Rhino T-load setup, but that give me better ideas!

[oredith]

so, the J-hooks were a no-go. gave it one more try with the wife and it was a disaster. I threw something together with 2x4 blocking, some hardware i had around the house, and some schedule 40 2" pvc pipes.

it's a tight squeeze, and i'm going to be getting more schedule 40 tubing from IMS to extend the bar so that it's not so tight fitting, but it worked. it was easy to just prop the bow over my head and slot it onto the PVC carriage I made, and then just get to the stern and push the yak up. it goes on so smoothly, that I think i need to add something to stop it from going too far over the front!

the carriage then detaches from the back and I can put it on the other side and load the other yak. it's ugly, but it works!

[erickp]

Nice setup man