Roof Racks and the Law

[JBaccarini]

Hi all,

Just wondring if anyone knows the details about load carrying on roof racks?

I'm thinking about building a rack for the van to accomodate a kayak and thought that maybe something side slung would save the hassle of a full blown roof rack. Thinking along the lines of a series of clamps on the guttering with J shaped bars descending the side of the van which the boat can drop into and be strapped down (similar to the type of rack thule make but to side mount not top).

Is there an official stance on how far a load can project from the side of a vehicle? I thought this type of rack might cut down on wind resistance and be easier to load/unload.

Please point out the error of my ways if there is one.

Cheers folks,

Jody

[Daveyboy]

I think if its on the side of the van and so increases the width it maybe should have some kind of markings, I know vans/trucks with side mounted glass frails/racks carry red/white marker boards.

[gardener68]

i made a surfboard carrier out of three steel bars bent to a j shape and bolted it through the sides of the hightop roof. was a bit high for easy access but did the job.

not sure on the width of a kayak but as long as it doesnt stick out any further than the mirrors then this is what i would do.

put it on the drivers side to save it getting ripped of by branches and signs ect and make sure the kayak is very well secured and you shouldnt have any probs.