16 foot long kayaks on top of TV

[Glenn Baglo]

I bought a second eye-bolt ( tow hook ) for my RAV4 since it only comes with one. Only cost me $65 at my friendly Toyota parts department.

[JRTrillium]

VicT - Yes!! I meant front and back tie downs on your kayak as well as side straps!! hahahah!!! Welcome back from your Maine trip - will you be posting some pictures?

Glenn Baglo - ummm . . . eye-bolt? What was that for?

[VicCT]

Thanks Glen. Not sure if they still make the one for the 2008. The new one is not compatible. But we did fine with the kayaks secured on one side. Since they are also tied at the back, they stay straight.

JR, the part that Glen is talking about is an eye bolt that screws into supports behind the front bumper. There is a panel that can be removed on the Rav to access the supports. They are usually used for towing the vehicle but make excellent front kayak tie downs. Most RAVs only go home with one eye bolt in the jack kit, so Glen ordered a second one for the other side. Not sure all cars have this, but the RAV does.

[Glenn Baglo]

Pic with two eye-bolts installed.

[VicCT]

Glenn, good pic. Two eye bolts are definitely better for a single boat, to keep it centered. With two boats they tend to keep each other in line, especially of tightly secured at the sides and rear.