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Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Cargo carrier



I really really hated to spend the big bucks on Thule racks for my lovely wife's little car. However, we expect to keep the car for a while and good roof racks are so useful. Just the other day I tied a 12 foot 2 X 6 to the racks and didn't have to worry about the racks falling off.

What I absolutely refuse to do is to pay hundreds of additional dollars on a cargo pod that attaches to those already pricey racks. Sure, they lock and are areodynamic, but it makes little sense to buy one. A simple plywood box with a hasp and lock would be as secure. A box on the roof would not be as areodynamic, but the mileage penalty is a small price to pay.

Maybe I'll just build a wood rack and lash everything to that. Left over from my canoe camping days are a couple of large drybags that would keep my gear dry. It's not as secure as a fancy locking box, but there would be nothing on the roof as valuable as one of those fancy cargo boxes.

-Sixbears

10 comments:

  1. Sounds like you got your plan all figured out, and inexpensively, if not free! Best way ~

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  2. I spend money where it really matters and skimp where it doesn't.

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  3. If you can build a boat I think you will be able to make a decent looking and aerodynamic carrier.

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    1. Good point Gary. Have you seen those cargo boxes that turn into boats? Pretty cool.

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    2. I have seen them , very cool idea but to high a price . I think taking an old kayak and making a carrier would be cheaper. Used plastic ones are cheap.

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    3. Oh I wouldn't buy one. Make one maybe.

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  4. I've never used roof top carriers. Always afraid they'll come off and hit vehicles behind me.

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    1. The key is a good set of quality racks that locks everything to the car. That's where it's important to buy quality. What sits on top of those can always be lashed down.

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  5. In the mean time, you could always borrow mine on a short term basis.

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    1. Thanks. Thought of that, but I might be gone 6 months or more. You might want it before then.

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