[Paddlewise] FW: Roof Racks

When the bow of the kayak sticks out beyond the front of the vehicle,
it is the front tie-down that keeps the boat from shooting forward in
a sudden stop.

Nylon lines also loosen in the rain, which is why many years ago I
switched to Dacron lines (available from sailing shops), which also
retain their suppleness after years of exposure to sunlight.

Chuck Holst

 -----Original Message-----
From: ssives [mailto:ssives_at_erols.com]
Sent: Saturday, November 28, 1998 7:27 PM
To: Johnlebl
Cc: paddlewise
Subject: Re: [Paddlewise] Roof Racks


John's point about the need for bow ropes (what I call the inverted "V"
from the bow to either end of the front bumper) is a good one.  But
please don't forget the stern rope!

  Just as bow ropes will prevent you from torpedoing the folks behind
you, the stern rope can prevent you from hurting folks in front of you
at a sudden stop (or the boat itself).  I usually use a single stern
line from my trailer hitch to the stern of the boat and back again.  I
also use a trucker's hitch to snugly tie the bow and stern lines.

  Also, whenever I stop during my highway trip I check the lines.
Invariably, the nylon lines have loosened a bit at highway speeds.  It
takes less than a minute to re-tighten each trucker's hitch.

  - Scott



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