> I'm soon to complete my CLC Chesapeake 16 and am looking towards
> transporting my boat. I live about 6 hours from the ocean, drive a Chevy
> Lumina APV van with a factory installed rack and plan to build a second
> CLC kayak next spring. I'm planning to buy a commercial rack (or modify my
> factory rack)and am debating on whether to buy a stacker system or two
> sets of cradles. Does anyone one have any advice on transporting my CLC on
> their side or should I invest in two sets of cradles? If I need to use
> cradles, can I use a 48" bar or must it be longer? I also have a
> Jetta and am concerned about using too wide of rack on a small car. Any
> advice? Why use a rack at all? I use two foam noodles layed on the roof of my cars and set the boat upright right on the roof. A rope fastens the boat to both front and back ( similar to how you would tie a canoe ). It is important to use a nylon web safety strap around the middle which can pass through the side windows. I wouldn't trust the factory supplied plastic car racks for anything, read the manual and you will see how low the manufacturer rates them in terms of weight. I have used this system for years without a problem.