Folks,

I typically cartop a sailboat. I’ve got the OEM roof rack but am finding it to be too narrow and a bit bulky for my taste, the two bars are also awfully close together.

I previously used Yakima crossbars and a landing pad setup on my L322 which was awesome. Yakima doesn’t have a landing pad listed on their site for the L663 (odd since it’s now many years into the model). I’ve seen a video online with someone using a Landing Pad that seems to work but welcome any other thoughts on whether they’ve tried it, other options etc.

I have a lot of Yakima equipment, and would prefer not to have to purchase an all-new set-up, if possible.

Thanks!

 

I use the Yakima HD bars with the Landing Pad system on my factory rails. They work great and I can remove/install them in less than five minutes. Unfortunately Yakima doesn’t make a setup for the Defender mounting. I had to fabricate the mounts for the pads myself.



Hope this helps.

 

I use a”Thule Goal Post Rooftop Carrier” to get a longer area for ladders. It might work for what you’re trying to do.In addition to the carrier you will need a toe hitch extender to get past the spare tire.

 

really nice do you recall which Landing Pad set you used? How’s the load and how strong does it feel?

 

I was able to use Landing Pad #5 with my Jetstream bars. You'll need to use the "D" sized plates (larger plates) with the "C" length bolts (shorter bolts).

 

Many thanks. What distance/spread did you use between each crossbar? I'm only going to use two, and 36" seems like a safe bet. The boat I'll cartop is about 140 lbs, and I also use ties in the front and back of the vehicle to limit any lift.

 

I think that'll depend on your specific use case. I have my bar distance set up to work with a Yakima Skybox 16.

 

thanks for the reply and understood — I’m not using them for an add on per se but as standalone bars that I can secure a boat to directly