Mounting a Canoe on a Camry

[RichieJeffery]

I have an 05 Camry that I carry a canoe on a few times a year for camping. I've been using the foam blocks and strapping it down to the front bumper and rear tow hooks. So far so good, but I'm always a little weary on strapping to the front bumper (even though it seems pretty solid) but I can't find anything else to tie down to in the front. Does anyone know of a place to hook on to in the the front?

Thanks in advance!
Rich

[touringcamry]

It might not be meant to be used like this, but have you considered using the towing eyelet in the front bumper to secure the canoe? This is only one point to secure the canoe and it's off to the side so I don't know if it will work or not.

[RichieJeffery]

I had a look for the towing eyelet you mentioned, but couldn't seem to find that either. In the process of looking for that I did find a solution.
There is a beam that runs under that rad that you can put a hook on to if you have the hood open. I just put one hook on each side about 3 feet apart. Then I just pulled them tight and closed the hood. The straps should come across one of the bumper screws, and line straight up with the outer edge of the grill on the metal part.

A rack still may be better, but this definitely works. I've driven close to 7 hours at 80-110km without any problems. Just keep an eye out that you don't strap it so tight it bends the front corners (next to the grill) of your hood

Cheers,
Rich

[gdanaher]

There should be a place on the underside, in the lower supports for the radiator, that could be drilled for an eye to be attached. You would avoid damage to too hood with too much tension. Same on rear. Use something like a 3/8 diamater hook or eye and it should be fine.

[touringcamry]

Originally Posted by RichieJeffery

I had a look for the towing eyelet you mentioned, but couldn't seem to find that either. In the process of looking for that I did find a solution.
There is a beam that runs under that rad that you can put a hook on to if you have the hood open. I just put one hook on each side about 3 feet apart. Then I just pulled them tight and closed the hood. The straps should come across one of the bumper screws, and line straight up with the outer edge of the grill on the metal part.

A rack still may be better, but this definitely works. I've driven close to 7 hours at 80-110km without any problems. Just keep an eye out that you don't strap it so tight it bends the front corners (next to the grill) of your hood

Cheers,
Rich

Is there a cut out on your front bumper towards the passenger side of the car? It should be covered with a piece of material the same color as the bumper. If you remove this cover, there is a threaded hole behind it. In the trunk near the spare tire, you'll find the mating eyelet that you screw into the threaded hole.

[Hajoca]

Tow hook covered with small plastic plate (trim) was not required for North American destination Camry's made in TMMK.