Low Profile Roof Rack with Kayaks?

[theocruiser]

I'm wanting to build a roof rack for my 100, and am trying to decide what style that I want. I have limited clearance in my work parking garage, so it needs to be low profile (4" or less). I also want to mount a slim LED light bar in front and a few setup lights in the back. There are a couple questions that I can't seem to find the answers to, though.

1. Do I really need to remove the stock rack from my truck? i don't plan on putting a significant amount of weight up there, probably 200 lbs total. A camping box, folding table, jerry can, hilift, camping chairs and things like that.

2. I have kayaks that I use quite a bit during the summer, with Thule racks like the ones in this picture. It clamps onto the stock elliptical cross bars. I'm not opposed to a separate bolt on crossbar that I'd use when I use the kayaks.

Dazzle me with examples or ideas! Here are some of my inspirations so far.

 

[theocruiser]

more.

 

[Cargo1234]

I am getting Gamaviti Roof Mounts (3 pairs) and 80/20 cross bars (1x2x48) to create a low profile rack for my Yakima Mega basket
Simple but effective
Should keep you low cost and low clearance

 

[Live to Ski]

I know this problem well and thought extensively about it.

Here is the ticket:

1) Thule square crossbar system (the regular height tower version). Note, this is tricky to mount to compound curve roof mount locations.

2) Thule hullavator.....no longer need to climb up to secure. 10m install/remove when want to park in garage
Thule Hullavator Pro Note: can get super discount if you are in the emergency response arena (I'm a ski patroller).

3) The other 1/2 of the roof width can be used for low profile 1/2 width roof platform. I used a home depot security door for that duty. Works super well, however I am looking at industrial steel storage rack platform as a replacement due to better tie down ease.

Do a search under my handle and you should see pictures of the system on my 60.