> Any particular words of wisdom for kayak roof racks for a 17' hard chine
> S&G kayak. I am working with a full size chevy truck/short bed with
> fiberglass cap. Although I only have one kayak now, I anticipate a need to
> haul two kayaks in a few months. To date for short distances traveled it
> has been into the back of the truck under the cap & thru the window
> into the cab.

I built a rack for my pickup without a cap out of 2X4's that has worked extremely well. Prior to building my 17' Chesapeake, I had a rack that fit two 12' plastic boats, and I modified the existing design to accept the longer boat and one on the shorter ones. If you are interested in removing the cap, measure the openings in the bed rails that will allow the 2X4 to slide snugly into it after being notched. I have openings in my bed that allowed me to secure all four legs with fasteners so it won't pull out. The height should equal the top of the cab. Lag bolt another 2X4 to the top of each upright and use a short piece cut on a 45 degree angle to add lateral support. I lag bolted these in place, as well. Find where you intend to rest your boat on the horizontal cross pieces, and create a "bed" out of whatever you have for scraps to support it. I made four wood wedges that matched the bottom of the boat and padded it with closed cell foam. Rachet straps hold it shug, but you can attach it with whatever you have handy. The bow is just above where the windshield meets the hood, and the stern is about 4 feet over the back bumper, high enough so you don't hit your head on it when unloading. I have $25 invested, about 3 hours, and can't think of a better way to go. But then again, I don't have a cap to contend with...