Bobcat Roof Rack Dilemma

[Gussie]

Sorry I haven't been posting, but I've probably spent more nights in my camper, which I picked up last Easter from The Guys, than I have in my own bed!

But - I digress. My problem is with my roof rack. When Marty asked me if I wanted the Yakima rack cut in two and positioned at each end, I said yes. I was thinking about my 12' kayak, but I didn't consider that the two fan vents would negate all but about two horizontal feet of crossbar. This also makes it impossible to get the crossbars any closer to each other. Still works for the kayak, but when I don't have the kayak, I'd like to use a cargo box. But I can't get any kind of cargo basket or case, because the crossbar distance is too great.

From my view, I have two choices:

• Contact The Guys at ATC to see if I can get another two pieces of Yakima track installed to make up the big gap, and get the Yakima RocketBox 11 (which is only 24" wide). Probably $500-600.
• Or fabricate a long, narrow, not too tall, open cargo basket that would span the gap between crossbars. Probably $300 in materials and paying my welder friend.

So, I like to save $$$, and the idea of building it myself (with help) is obviously appealing. But I'm a bit concerned about the distance between crossbars. Would I still need the third crossbar for scenario 2?

As always, sage advice appreciated!
(PS: I wish the Boxster were mine)

 

[ski3pin]

I think the simple solution is having the "big gap" filled with yakima track. In the end, this will allow you to move your towers anywhere you'd like.

 

[Alley-Kat]

I think the simple solution is having the "big gap" filled with yakima track. In the end, this will allow you to move your towers anywhere you'd like.

Ditto!
From another Bobcat owner.

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

And I'm ordering full length on my Bobcat.

 

[Gussie]

And I'm ordering full length on my Bobcat.

Wandering Sage:
Check with Marty to see if "full length" means the full length of the camper. My understanding was that it's a six-foot length - which is why I wanted it cut in 3' lengths.

 

[Gussie]

I think the simple solution is having the "big gap" filled with yakima track. In the end, this will allow you to move your towers anywhere you'd like.

Yeah. I guess you're right, ski3. It'll be important to make sure there are at least three screws on each to hold the track down... not sure if the frame of the camper runs length or width?

 

[ski3pin]

The frame tubes the tracks are screwed to run the length of the roof

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

Wandering Sage:
Check with Marty to see if "full length" means the full length of the camper. My understanding was that it's a six-foot length - which is why I wanted it cut in 3' lengths.

There are 3 options. 60" - 72" - Full length. Full length is two of the others butted together.

 

[Gussie]

I think the simple solution is having the "big gap" filled with yakima track. In the end, this will allow you to move your towers anywhere you'd like.

Good advice, Ski3. Marty and Jeff added the track to fill in the gap for me just after Xmas. Only charged me $40!