When it comes to transporting your boat with a 4WD you have the option of either a trailer for a larger boat, or a custom resigned roof rack for a smaller boat. There are several practical aspects of using boat roof racks on 4WDs, including weight restrictions, and reduced clearance.
Weight Restrictions
Understanding Combined Weight
Boat roof racks for 4WDs come with specified weight limits, which include both the weight of the boat and the rack itself. It is important to adhere to these restrictions to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and its occupants. The total load cannot exceed the design limits of the 4WD vehicle. Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for both the 4WD and the roof rack system. These guidelines provide essential information on weight capacity and distribution.
Consider Rack Material and Design
The material and design of the roof rack play a significant role in determining its weight-bearing capacity. Roof Racks should be constructed from durable materials, such as aluminium or steel, to ensure that the design is robust enough to handle the load.
Factor in Boat Accessories
When calculating weight, consider additional accessories attached to the boat, such as outboard motors, lifejackets or fishing gear. These contribute to the overall load and should be accounted for in your calculations.
Remove unnecessary equipment
Remove unneeded items from the vehicle when taking the boat out. You won’t need a gas bottle or camping equipment. Just take the boating equipment and anything needed for safety.
You can lighten the load considerably by putting passengers in another vehicle.
Remember, exceeding the weight restrictions will badly compromise insurance claims and the legal situation.
Reduced Clearance Considerations
Height Restrictions
The addition of a boat on the roof rack inevitably reduces the overall clearance height of your 4WD. Be mindful of the height restrictions, especially when passing through areas with low overhangs or tunnels.
Plan Your Route
Before embarking on your journey, plan your route considering the reduced clearance. Take note of any height restrictions along the way to avoid complications or potential damage to the boat, the roof rack, or the surroundings.
Parking Considerations
When parking in structures or garages, be aware of the reduced clearance and choose spots that accommodate the heightened profile of the 4WD with the boat on the roof. You probably will not be able to use undercover parking structures because of the low clearance.
Communication and Signage
If travelling in a group, communicate the altered height to others in your convoy. Additionally, use cautionary signage to alert fellow road users of the extended height of your vehicle.
Additional Tips for Safe Transportation
Secure the Boat Properly
Utilize secure tie-downs and straps to firmly anchor the boat to the roof rack. Regularly check and adjust these restraints to ensure the boat remains stable during transit.
Check Local Regulations
Be aware of local regulations regarding the transportation of oversized loads, as carrying a boat on the roof may necessitate compliance with specific rules.
Regular Maintenance
Inspect the roof rack system regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Addressing issues promptly ensures the continued safety and reliability of the setup.
Clean-up afterwards
Boats invariably get wet, often with salt water. Hose off all salt water, as fresh water is far less harmful. Hose and dry other equipment before carrying it inside the vehicle. Items like fishing poles will quickly cause rust in cars.
A Tracklander boat loader is designed to make the carrying of a boat much easier. It is generally difficult to load a boat, even a lightweight boat, onto a high-clearance vehicle. But by incorporating rollers at the rear of the roof rack Perth the Tracklander boat loader makes this task far less troublesome. Inbuilt straps will hold the boat securely during travel.
