How to Reduce the Vibration Noises From a Surfboard Roof Rack

Vibration noises from a surfboard rack are almost always caused by loose equipment. Either the rack on the car roof is not secure, or the board itself is rattling from the wind while driving. It probably gets worse when a big tractor trailer comes barreling past you in the opposite direction, causing enough air blast to shake the whole vehicle. Fortunately, there are techniques and products on the market for reducing surfboard rack vibration.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdrivers
  • Webbing tie-downs with quick-release buckles
  • Four neoprene foam bricks at least 1-inch thick, 4 inches wide and 6 inches long
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Instructions

    • 1

      Tighten the existing roof rack with screwdrivers if your vehicle is equipped with a rack. You can eliminate some rattling and vibration noise just by checking the rack.

    • 2

      Place four neoprene foam bricks on the four corners of the rack where the surfboard will rest during transportation. Neoprene is available at sporting goods stores and hardware stores. You can buy a large piece and cut it to the dimensions you require or purchase individual bricks. Neoprene is water-resistant and works better than standard foam rubber at dampening vibration.

    • 3

      Position the surfboard evenly over the neoprene bricks and secure with web tie-down straps. Webbed tie-down straps are available at luggage dealers, outdoor outfitters, camping and sporting goods stores.

    • 4

      Make a single twist in the webbing strap over the center of the surfboard before securing the strap. This will hold the board securely against the rack, while the neoprene absorbs the vibration.

    • 5

      Tighten the web straps and make sure that they are evenly spaced across four sections of the surfboard to distributed the pressure and prevent the board from cracking in a sudden updraft.