Cross Racks/Kayak Rack for My Truck Shell

Hi everyone--

I generally carry my kayak in the back of my truck, but I have a shell on my truck so it makes it a bit difficult.  That, plus the fact that the shell glass is constantly banging against the kayak when I hit bumps its just becoming an issue.  I figure I have two options: 1. I can close the shell glass and leave the gate open and risk all my stuff falling out the back or just lock everything down which will suck at 430am; 2. I can get a rack.  I've been looking at installing track racks on my truck from thule since I don't have racks on there now, but the total package for everything and the kayak holder and install will probably run me close to 7-800 I'm guessing. 

My question is this: has anyuse used one of the significantly cheaper universal racks with the straps that go inside the car?  If so, can you tell me your experiences?

Also does anyone else have a shell that has this same problem?  I'm trying to figure out what to do to keep my truck and kayak from getting banged up.  Also, I live in a condo so I generally have to load my kayak in the morning before I leave.  Might be nice to be able to leave it on the car with a locking rack.

THANKS!

I use the Yakima Side Loaders and the 1A towers with a cross bar. Works great. You should be able to get the whole set up for $150-175 used on Ebay.

That is perfect!  Thank you for the quick help there.  I have been looking for awhile and didn't stumble across this.  I thought this was going to be a pretty expensive venture, but this I can deal with.  Thanks again!

My shell is a Leer fiberglass, but I would be interested in taking a look at what you have.  I am still learning about these racks and how the install goes, but if you want to PM me pics and a price that would be great.  I honestly have no idea what their value is used so I'd rather leave it to your discretion as to price.  I'm nto much for lowballing so if it seems fair I think we can work something out.  Thank you!

Hi everyone--

I generally carry my kayak in the back of my truck, but I have a shell on my truck so it makes it a bit difficult.  That, plus the fact that the shell glass is constantly banging against the kayak when I hit bumps its just becoming an issue.  I figure I have two options: 1. I can close the shell glass and leave the gate open and risk all my stuff falling out the back or just lock everything down which will suck at 430am; 2. I can get a rack.  I've been looking at installing track racks on my truck from thule since I don't have racks on there now, but the total package for everything and the kayak holder and install will probably run me close to 7-800 I'm guessing. 

I went the rack route on my F250 with a shell. This is what I got:

http://www.orsracksdirect.com/yakima-jeep-hardtop-roof-rack-tracks-kit-8001614.html

Free shipping, but I dont remember if there was tax. It was also on sale back then so it was cheaper. Installation was fairly easy. Only problem is getting the kayak up there. I require another person to get it on top with the saddles and rollers attachment. I only use it while carpooling. I am looking into those Hullavators in the long run. Hope that helps

Awesome thanks man!

I have a Snugtop shell on my truck and opted for their tracks / crossbars. It was an additional $150 at time of order. I mounted a set of Malone seawings on top and their striker load assist. I'm able to load my 16' hobie on top by myself. When I bring my second kayak with me, I just stick that in the back. My shell is less than a year old, so I'm not experiencing issues with the glass moving on me.