Yakima KayakStackers Installation Guide
This guide provides instructions for installing and using Yakima KayakStackers, designed to transport kayaks on vehicle crossbars. Ensure minimum crossbar spread is 30 inches.
Included Components
- Kayak Stackers (2x)
- Heavy Duty Straps (2x)
- Carriage Bolts (4x)
- Snap Arounds (4x)
- Hex Keys (4x)
- Bow/Stern Tie Down (2x)
Important Warning
IT IS CRITICAL THAT ALL YAKIMA RACKS AND ACCESSORIES BE PROPERLY AND SECURELY ATTACHED TO YOUR VEHICLE. IMPROPER ATTACHMENT COULD RESULT IN AN AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT, AND COULD CAUSE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR TO OTHERS. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR SECURING THE RACKS AND ACCESSORIES TO YOUR CAR, CHECKING THE ATTACHMENTS PRIOR TO USE, AND PERIODICALLY INSPECTING THE PRODUCTS FOR ADJUSTMENT, WEAR, AND DAMAGE. THEREFORE, YOU MUST READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE INSTRUCTIONS AND CAUTIONS SUPPLIED WITH YOUR YAKIMA PRODUCT PRIOR TO INSTALLATION OR USE. IF YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE INSTRUCTIONS AND CAUTIONS, OR IF YOU HAVE NO MECHANICAL EXPERIENCE AND ARE NOT THOROUGHLY FAMILIAR WITH THE INSTALLATION PROCEDURES, YOU SHOULD HAVE THE PRODUCT INSTALLED BY A PROFESSIONAL INSTALLER SUCH AS A QUALIFIED GARAGE OR AUTO BODY SHOP.
Part #: 1033394 Rev.A
Installation Instructions
Determine Crossbar Type
Square Crossbars
Loosen the tabs in the SnapArounds by bending them repeatedly. Remove the tabs with scissors or pliers.
Attach two SnapArounds per bar.
Round Crossbars
Attach two SnapArounds per bar.
Factory Bars
Attach two MightyMounts per bar. Install bar caps if your MightyMounts require them.
Mounting the Stackers
Step 1: Attach Mounts to Crossbars
Insert bolts through the base and into the SnapArounds or MightyMounts.
Align the mount with the fitted slots in the Stacker base.
Step 2: Initial Tightening
Attach hex keys onto bolts. Do not tighten yet.
Support the KayakStacker so that the car roof is protected.
Positioning the Stackers
Position the stackers on the crossbars.
The distance from the stacker to the tower should equal the width of your kayak (or kayaks) on edge.
Final Tightening
Completely tighten the stackers now.
Tighten hex keys on SnapArounds. Tighten MightyMount bolts with a wrench.
Additional straps may be required for more than 2 kayaks.
Strapping and Loading the Kayak
Rules for Strapping Kayaks
Rule 1: Positioning
Distance of Stacker from crossbar tower is exactly the width of kayak(s) on edge.
Rule 2: Strap Under Crossbar
Loop strap under crossbar at least once.
Rule 3: Inboard Strap
Loop strap inboard of crossbar tower.
Loading and Securing the Boat
Step 6: Tie Down with Straps
Loop strap around stacker post. Cross lines and set aside.
Load boat. Bring straps up and over the boat. Hang to the side.
Hook the strap at the top of the stacker. Slide buckle up so that it hangs at the top edge of the boat.
Added Security
- Pass strap inboard under crossbar.
- Pass strap under boat around the base of the stacker.
- Pass under crossbar again and attach to buckle.
Step 7: Connect and Tighten
Insert the end of the strap into the buckle as shown. Slide the rubber cover back into place.
To tighten straps, hold and pull. Secure extra strap.
Final Checks and Warnings
Step 8: Secure Front and Rear Tie Downs
Secure front and rear of boat to vehicle with bow/stern tie downs. Refer to bow/stern tie down instructions for correct assembly and installation.
Failure to secure front and rear of long loads to ends of vehicle can result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Step 9: Before Driving Away
Test movement by rocking the boat. Tighten again if there is movement.
Weight Limits
Follow the YAKIMA Fit List for your rack's weight limit. Do not exceed the weight limit of your vehicle's racks.
Maximum weight is 165 lbs. (75 kg) unless otherwise noted.
Vehicle Considerations
If you remove your carrier, follow instructions to install again. Follow safety checks in accessory instructions before every installation.
Rear Hatch
Some longer loads may prevent the rear hatch from fully opening. Always use caution when opening your hatch.
Antenna
Antenna on the roof may need to be removed to prevent interference with long loads.
General Warnings and Maintenance
Hardware Security
WARNING: BE SURE ALL HARDWARE IS SECURED ACCORDING TO INSTRUCTIONS. ATTACHMENT HARDWARE CAN LOOSEN OVER TIME. CHECK BEFORE EACH USE, AND TIGHTEN IF NECESSARY.
Maintenance
Use non-water soluble lubricant on screws. Use a soft cloth with water and mild detergent to clean plastic parts.
Remove accessory before entering an automatic car wash.
Technical Assistance and Warranty
Technical Assistance or Replacement Parts
Contact your dealer or call (888)925-4621. Available Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, PST.
Warranty Information
This product is covered by YAKIMA's "Love It Till You Leave It" Limited Lifetime Warranty.
To obtain a copy of this warranty, go online to www.yakima.com or email us at yakwarranty@yakima.com or call (888) 925-4621.
