How to Install a Boat Rack for a Pop-Up Camper

A pop-up camper uses a hard-shell roof and half-walls. These support the fabric walls of the sleeping sides and camping cabin. When the camper is ready for towing, it collapses down into itself. When installing a boat rack, such as for kayaks and canoes, the rack goes onto the hard-shell roof and the boats must be removed before the camper is erected. Before placing boats onto the roof, check the combined weight of the boats and rack and then consult the weight rating for your camper's roof to avoid mishaps.

Things You'll Need

  • Soapy water
  • Sponge
  • Measuring tape
  • Power drill
  • Caulking gun
  • Silicone caulk
  • Fit kit for your camper (use the rack maker's kit guide)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash off the roof of the pop-up and remove any antenna or vent fans that impede the placement of the rack or boats. Measure the distance between the roof rack podium mounts -- the small black brackets the rack bars and saddles are attached to. Mark the distance and placement points on the roof.

    • 2

      Drill out the podium mount points on the roof and then drill them to the roof. Seal the drilled holes once the podiums are installed -- add caulk around the holes and screws.

    • 3

      Slide the rack crossbars between the podium mounts, keeping the bars perpendicular to the roof of the camper.

    • 4

      Attach the boat saddles onto the crossbars so they are spaced equally on each bar. There are two saddles for each set, with one forward and one rear, aligned so the kayak or canoe rests between them.

    • 5

      Raise the roof of the camper. Go inside and seal the drill holes with the caulk. Lower the roof and when ready to transport the boats, place them in the cradles.