How to Build a Kayak Rack for a Pickup

If you want to carry a kayak that is longer than your pickup bed, you will need a framework to lift the back of the boat to the same level as the cab. You can build a sturdy kayak rack for your pickup for under $40 with wood, some screws and basic carpentry tools. The rack can be lifted into the bed of the pickup and removed when not in use.

Things You'll Need

  • 10 two-by-four wooden studs
  • 2 two-by-six, 8-feet long
  • Tape measure
  • Reciprocating saw
  • Circular saw
  • Drill and bits
  • 1 box 3 1/2-inch galvanized screws
  • 4 ratcheting tie-down straps
  • Carpet scraps
  • Zip ties
  • Pliers
  • Carpet knife
  • Eye protection
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the length of the inside pickup bed. Cut four two-by-four boards to that length and lay them in the bottom of the bed from front to back. Make sure they lift in and out freely and adjust the length if needed.

    • 2

      Lay two of the boards you just cut on edge in the bottom of the bed and measure the width of the space between them. Cut four more boards that length.

    • 3

      Lay out two side boards on edge and make a rectangle by placing two of the shorter boards on edge between them at the ends. Pre-drill holes and screw 3 1/2-inch screws into the ends of the end boards through the side boards. Use the rest of the cut boards to make an identical second rectangle.

    • 4

      Measure from the bed of the truck to the top of the cab. Add three inches. Cut four two-by-four boards that length for uprights.

    • 5

      Stand the four uprights inside the corners of the lower rectangle. Pre-drill and screw the bottom of the uprights in place with 3 1/2-inch screws. Pre-drill and screw the second upper rectangle to the top of the four uprights.

    • 6

      Cut two strips of carpet long enough to cover the width of the two top cross members and wide enough to wrap around the cross members to pad the kayak. Secure the carpet with zip ties. Lift the rack assembly into the pickup bed.

    • 7

      Set the kayak in place on top and strap it down with ratcheting tie-down straps. Secure the bottom of the straps to the truck bed or edges, not the rack. This will tie down not only the kayak, but also the rack itself.