This is a follow up video to the kayak storage cart build video and provides all of the dimensions needed for you to build your own DIY kayak storage cart. Here is the original kayak cart video.. • Kayak Storage Cart Bui...
This is an interesting build... Similar to others on RU-vid that show PVC as the method of support. I was about to build one for my new Outback but decided to check with Hobie for their take on it. First I read my owner's manual and lo and behold there is a section on storage and transport and they have a diagram and describe this PVC method and strongly discourage it. As a matter of fact they say that if they're recommendations aren't followed it could void the warranty. I decided to follow up with a call to their corporate office in Oceanside to speak to a technical specialist. The person I talked to described this as a "tragic situation" . They explained that there had been a number of issues with cracks particularly around the scupper holes that they determine were caused from storage and transport on PVC bunks. They went on to explain that it would sometimes take a year or more for the cracks to develop. Long story short, they strongly recommend against it! Needless to say I'm looking for an alternative method.
This was the first cart build of its kind. The first video on youtube showing this. I am using the larger PVC pipes and the diameter DOES make a difference. The pipe is not resting anywhere near the scupper holes. Not a single crack on this kayak. I have watched people try to replicate this cart and they always go cheap. Smaller PVC, cheap on the lumber, flimsy wheels, and they wonder why they have problems. I think you need to take a serious look at why Hobie is telling you this. They have a manufacturing flaw and they are blaming everyone and everything but themselves for their issues. They want to hold onto any excuse to void a warranty. Maybe they can tell you why people who dont have a kayak cart are getting cracks in the same spot.
FF - Thank you for the information on building this cart. I'm going to build it today using your dimensions for a PA-14 and the tailgate height for my truck. My plan is to initially construct the cart using all screws to ensure that I make the cart level and plumb. Then I'll replace the screws with lag bolts while drilling the holes. Should be an easy job thanks to your great advice.
Great looking cart. I hope I can take this idea and apply it to my Feel Free Lure II Tandem Kayak. Any comments that might help would be appreciated. Thanks!
That is a damn nice cart..I just got the 5"casters and everything else to make this. Now that you've had your cart for a while is there anything that you would change on it for the better? Also one more question.. I use a truck bed extender that hooks into my hitch so should I use that instead of the bottom of the tailgate/truck bed??? Thanks
Pvc is too expensive ..$30 a pipe ... Use 2x4 with pool noodles on top. Use 2 together 2x4 fir posts for corners .. Those big posts are expensive now $35 each ..
