Thule Rack on Jeep Wrangler 2DR

[samcbryant]

I could use a bit of advice. I'm a new Jeep owner, Wrangler JL 2 Door Hard Top

I installed the Thule Rack system with 300R foot pack (gutter) to primarily haul my kayak. My initial installation is with the forward bar over the doors. I'm not sure that this is the best spot for the forward bar since this is also the part of the roof that can be removed easily. Maybe it is ok.

If anyone has recommendations for the position of the bars/feet it would be great.

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[BroncoHound]

There isn't really any issues with mounting a rail like you have in the picture, on the freedom panels (the front two removable roof panels). Just keep in mind that the maximum rated static load for the Jeep hard top is 150lbs when using a gutter mount like that. That weight limit will decrease as you get into more dynamic conditions, so just use common sense and a slightly cautious eye when securing a load up there if you plan on doing some more aggressive off-roading. For a single kayak, you shouldn't have any issues at all set up exactly how you are.

However if you just don't have a good feeling running the crossbar on the freedom panels, you can back both crossbars up a bit so they're both secured to the primary hard top section. You should still be able to mount and secure your kayak to the crossbars without any real concern.

TL;DR - looks good to me. Strap the kayak down securely and go for an adventure! Welcome to the Jeepin' world!

 

[samcbryant]

There isn't really any issues with mounting a rail like you have in the picture, on the freedom panels (the front two removable roof panels). Just keep in mind that the maximum rated static load for the Jeep hard top is 150lbs when using a gutter mount like that. That weight limit will decrease as you get into more dynamic conditions, so just use common sense and a slightly cautious eye when securing a load up there if you plan on doing some more aggressive off-roading. For a single kayak, you shouldn't have any issues at all set up exactly how you are.

However if you just don't have a good feeling running the crossbar on the freedom panels, you can back both crossbars up a bit so they're both secured to the primary hard top section. You should still be able to mount and secure your kayak to the crossbars without any real concern.

TL;DR - looks good to me. Strap the kayak down securely and go for an adventure! Welcome to the Jeepin' world!

That information is great! thanks. I'll strap on the kayak later this week and take it for a spin.

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