How to Convert a Trailer Into a Kayak Rack

Building a kayak rack to convert an existing utility trailer for recreational use is an inexpensive project easily completed in as little as a single weekend. Whether you would like to be able to transport your kayak across town or across the country, you'll be able to do it easily while retaining the trailer for other purposes. The design of this kayak rack is intended for open utility trailers with short tailgates as you would find commonly available at home stores nationwide. Closed or covered utility trailers are not adaptable to this specific design.

Things You'll Need

  • Graph paper
  • Pencil
  • Measuring tape
  • Pressure-treated 2-by-4-by-8-foot studs
  • Galvanized bolts, washers and nuts
  • Drill
  • Drill bits
  • Wood saw
  • Galvanized eye bolts
  • Rubber tie-down straps
  • Old rubber 2-inch bicycle tires
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Instructions

  1. Design the Kayak Rack

    • 1

      Measure the base area of the utility trailer and note the dimensions. The rack you will be building will be a simple A-frame structure similar to a swing set. The base of the frame will be mounted at each inside corner of your trailer.

    • 2

      Draw the A-frame design on graph paper with a 2-by-4 beam at the top, and two more added front to back on the legs of the A-frame to assist in securing the structure of the rack.

    • 3

      Design the A-frame with the crossbar support extending past the frame so that it is equal in size to the width of the trailer.

    • 4

      Note the length of each of the needed pieces of the frame on the graph paper for ease of reference.

    Construct the A-frame

    • 5

      Cut the pieces out and lay them out as you work near the trailer as they are to be built.

    • 6

      Build both sides of the A-frame, utilizing the galvanized bolts, washers and nuts to connect the pieces together per your diagram.

    • 7

      Install the crossbar supports with the A-frame ends in place on the trailer, and ensure that the overall structure does not shake or wobble. If your trailer has a tailgate, you can bolt the rear A-frame structure to this to lend additional support.

    • 8

      Install the eye bolts so that when the kayak is resting on the A-frame cross member, the rubber straps hold the craft securely in place. Ideally, the cockpit of the kayak should face inward toward the center of the A-frame, preventing rain from entering when in transit. Ensure that the rubber straps fit very tightly to prevent the kayak from sliding or jostling around.

    • 9

      Bolt the entire structure securely to the trailer, using at least four mounting points attached with galvanized fittings.