I just finished a roof/kayak rack build so I thought I'd show how I went about it.

I have an '89 XJ 2 dr. Limited with an original rack that covers the full length of the roof. I decided to use it, vs. making a drip rail rack, because the 150 lbs. it is designed for would be fine for what I plan to carry, basically 2 kayaks, 1 kayak and camp box or 2 camp boxes. I wanted it to be a rear rack that would be on for most of the time and a front rack for when I needed it for kayaks. Everything goes on and comes off in less than 15 minutes. I take it off in the winter simply to lessen the snow build up.

I'm "cheap" and like to fabricate things out of other things if I can. I started with a chain link fence gate. I cut it to shape, added a few pieces and welded it back together. I added 2 lengths of e-track to give it some structure and to form a base for securing things to, mainly 2 Pelican-like camp boxes. When mounted it "whistled" I think as air passed through the e-track. It was bearable but I made a wind fairing for it and that cured the problem. I also added an LED light to the back and will add a switch for it independent of the back up lights.

The front rack is a length of chain link fence top rail. I fabricated drip rail mounts for both sides that are secured by a pair of 3/8" bolts and a 3/8" threaded ****. The rail is 1.25" OD tube and has a full width length of 1" pipe inside it. I slide the pipe out to mount 1 kayak and then slide it through to the other side for the second kayak. A rear cross tube is bolted to the rack to level out the kayaks. The tubes are capped with rubber plugs when nothing is on the rack. The pictures show the sequence of how I put them onto the roof. I am neither tall or young and this method works great. Very easy and fast. Everything is tied down with ratchet ropes.

I probably have about $100 into this and of course a bit of welding and painting. It was a fun project and rather than give a blow by blow of how I did it I'll just provide some pics.

 

I like this a lot. May copy your lift assist.

 

simple use of some common curb items, description was absolutely accurate. Looks affective for its intended use - definitely inspiring