Roof Rack

[pkrainert]

Hey guys,

Does anyone have any recommendations on a lower priced roof rack for my 08 Corolla?

[fishexpo101]

What do you intend to carry on the rack? How often do you intend to use the rack?

Myself, all Yakima rack systems on my cars, though they can be pretty pricey. Thule offers a comparable system for less money and many 9th gen Corolla owners seems to be pleased with their performance.

They do make universal racks that are less than $40-$50 - but use straps to anchor themselves to the car, some also use suction cups as well. Problem with that setup, is that straps tend to slip during use. If you have any decent amount of weight on it, that could cause it to be pulled off the roof at speed.

As they say, you do get what you paid for. I'd check around - eBay or Craigslist - might be able to score a lightly used Thule or Yakima setup for a good price.

[pkrainert]

I would like to make a box of some sort that can carry all of my fishing gear, I have some 1 piece fishing poles 7ft long and they are a pain to carry in the car. Also have some other gear that doesnt fit so well in the trunk.

I also want something that can handle about 80lbs since I also want to use to to transport a kayak just under 60lbs.

[fishexpo101]

80lbs is a pretty decent amount of weight. Especially if you are talking about something with the cross section of kayak (even the single occupant ones pose a huge drag load) - best to stick with a name brand rack. You will definitely get your monies work with them.

Think of it this way - how much will you pay to not have the rack drop your kayak or other gear because it slipped off the roof.

I also transport some long fishing gear (cane poles, long crappie rods, fly fishing rods, etc.) with my current rack - I put most inside a padded PVC tube (foam pipe insulation, cut to fill the inside the PVC tube) that is capped on both ends to prevent them from damage, loss, theft, etc.

[monzy44]

I can tell you this, I have a thule setup on my 03' corolla and it was worth the price, it has amazing grip to my car and will never fall off at speed, and its an easy and quick removable rack. I would recommend a thule setup 100%, just go to their website, it customizes one to fit your car perfectly

and also, never ever EVER get a universal rack!!!