Car-topping AI with Malone folding J-racks/Telos autoloader?

This subject had been touched on somewhat, but I need to ask a more specific question....

For car topping a solo AI on my 2006 Xterra, I am strongly leaning on the Malone folding J-rack system with Telos load assist.

Are there any Xterra owners using this specific set up?

I noticed a few are doing it, but have you had any issues with it? I noted that the racks are rated at 75 lbs max and the AI is 100 lbs, as well as a little wider than the width recommended by Malone.

I am wanting to do some long road trips and I am worried about slippage, huge wind resistance while driving and loosening of rack fittings on Xterra factory cross bars.

Thanks in advance.

The problem I see is that you are already exceeding the maximum load of the racks by 33% with the hull only. Assuming you store the akas in the trunk, you still have to add the mast and amas up top, seriously overloading that rack.

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Tony Stott
2012 Tandem Island "SIC EM" with Hobie spinnaker

The mast and amas would be stored to the side of the racks, so it would be hull only.

I can't say I haven't pushed weight limits (though not roof racks) from time to time, but I am a bit concerned. The trailer would definitely be the easiest option, but there a many places (especially in the summer) that finding parking with a long trailer would be an issue.

I've seen pics of ppl with Xterras doing it, but they are older posts and I am still awaiting replies on them.

Also, would not the distribution of the hull weight between the two racks mean that each individual rack is absorbing only 50 lbs per?

Sorry, I am unfamiliar with those racks, so can't answer that. Good luck!

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Tony Stott
2012 Tandem Island "SIC EM" with Hobie spinnaker