After a couple of KMart type racks and foam block arrangements, about 15 yrs ago I decided I was tired of the el-crappo's. Because of vehicle changes over the years, I have had both Thule and Yakimas (both have websites that will let youfind all the various parts and pieces you will need for your vehicle - see below). My personal prefernce is Yakima, but both are good quality and quite durable (though not cheap - you DO get what you pay for). They both have setups for virtually every vehicle on the planet. Another thing here is that the racks are useful for hauling other things (plywood, 2x4s, etc.)

With a short span between the racks you'll probably end up with bow and stern tie downs, which are a good idea anyway. You'll want to the flying boat 'feature' at highway speeds!

One question would be how will you tie to the front and rear of the vehicle? Tubluar nylon webbing with loops will let you wrap around bumper supports, etc and clip in with a 'biner, then to your painters.

When you trade vehicles you would need to replace the towers, but not the actual bars (or any other doodad like gunwale brackets, kayak saddles, bike hoders, etc.) Also, think about buying the locks so your rack won't disappear from the parking lot during your week in the wilderness.

You'll spend maybe $200 but A) your boat(s) will NOT fly away or be damaged in transit B) neither will your car C) they are easy to put on, take off D) you can use most of what you use on this car for your next car.

Well worth the $$ (could only link to 1 page) here's the other-->http://www.thuleracks.com/

: Hey all! Has anyone had any experience in hauling their canoes and kayaks on
: a Ford Taurus sedan? We have a '99 model, and the thing has a reletively
: short and rounded roof line. What type of rack system would work here. I'd
: like something secure, but if I don't have to spend a fortune, well, that
: would be nice too, since I won't buy another Taurus......am I spelling
: that right????? I have a very old small truck, but it is going away soon
: (my wife just got her first Mary K car,.....!). The truck has been good
: for hauling my canoe locally, but it is too tired to go very far (200,000
: miles on a Ford Ranger!). I can't afford to replace my pickup right now,
: and I'd like to be able to haul the boats to lakes that are a few hours
: away from home, so my options are either the Taurus or a Mary K Grand Am.
: HELP!

: Thanks, Garland