The only reason
: I've heard to use end lines in addition to the rack is that if the rack
: fails the boat won't become a projectile. I definitely think that any end
: lines should probably be brought to just being taut and not really snugged
: up tight. Just my theory and I have no working knowledge to back it up. I
: did see someone else's site recently that had wood cradles to hold the
: kayak on it's side as you stated you are doing. I like that but am going
: for the more neanderthal/cheap method myself. If I get too flashy with a
: rack, I'll have to get a new truck....hey....there's an idea.

: --Tony

Hey Tony,

Your right about the end lines. Just snug them up so the kayak doesn't tend to slide forward or backward should the straps not be quite tight enough to hold the yak completely secure in the event of having to make "evasive maneuvers" or hard braking. Just remember . . its your boat and your time and labor. If it hits the pavement at highway speed - whats it worth then?

I haul my boats on a trailer (you can do the same basic set-up with a car or pickup) with the cradles 8' apart. I go over the boats with ratchet straps (not the cheap ones) at the cradles plus I use lines at the ends to make sure they can't slide. I don't take to the road unless I'm confident that they are secure. Just tooo much work to be careless when hauling!!! Just my .02 worth.

Here's a pic of my set-up, but the boats only have bungies in the pic for demo only.

Happy Paddling.

Charles.