Roof Rack Question

[KingfisherB]

Well, I got rid of my old pick-up last week and am now driving around in a 2003 Carolla. I had a good set up with the truck and a bed extender, now I don't know what to do. I have an Old Town Guide 147. I like the idea of a roof rack but don't want to drop 300 bucks on a custom job(yakima/thule). does anyone have any experience with the inexpensive, universal roof racks like... http://www.amazon.com/Highland-2005200-Black-Universal-Carrier/dp/B00002N9G1/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1279334894&sr=1-2 ?
What about foam blocks? If the 300 dollar custom rack is the only option, I think I'd rather set up one of those 48" x 40" utility trailers from Harbor freight(179.99). Thanks for ya'lls insight.

Brian

[yak-aholic]

They have the foam block kits for canoes at Academy that work pretty good. I think it's 4 blocks and you haul the canoe upside down. The straps will go around the canoe and through the cab of the car.

[Laidback]

I've got a set of Yakima 48" bars with the towers and a boat loader that I will let go cheap. All you would need to do is get the mounts.

[Psycho Joe]

Universal Roof Rack at PepBoys $30 Same as this one.

http://www.cargogear.com/OneItemInfo.aspx?partnum=HIUROOFRACK

[KingfisherB]

Thanks for the replies, guys. I was wondering if the universal rack or foam blocks are more widley accepted as a better option than the other? I am looking to spend as little as possible, but certainly don't want to be unsafe.

Laidback, thanks for the offer - I'll check out what I need as far as mounting and get back to you.

Thanks
-Brian

[Mung]

Back in the day I used foam blocks with front and rear tie downs, and a cinch strap across the top and thru the doors, which worked fine for my 15' aluminum Richline canoe. Pretty hard to do alone, but with two, you can easily place and remove the canoe. Twist the straps to avoid road noise.

[Psycho Joe]

Universal Roof Rack at PepBoys $30 Same as this one.

http://www.cargogear.com/OneItemInfo.aspx?partnum=HIUROOFRACK

I added foam pool noodle to each of the bars and it worked just fine.