Free web guide
DIY Van Surfboard Rack Guide
How we built a surfboard rack that can adapt to different vans and roof racks.
Our setup is on a ProMaster, but the basic rack is not ProMaster-specific. It can work with many common roof racks. On rail-based systems like ours, a mounting bracket connects the van rail to the surfboard bars.
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Table of contents
- 01Why we moved the boards outsideThe problem with carrying surfboards inside the van.
- 02How the system adaptsThe common rack and the adapter that connects it to the van.
- 03How this setup adapts to different vansFour roof-system paths for using the same rack concept.
- 04Parts for the adaptable systemThe reusable rack components and the adapter that connects them.
- 05Measure before buyingA before-you-buy checklist for bars and brackets.
- 06How we assembled oursThe documented sequence for our rail-mounted setup.
- 07Securing the surfboardPlan the board, padding and straps as one securement system.
- 08What our DIY rack costOur at-the-time parts costs and commercial quote.
- 09What we learned after using itWhat thousands of miles taught us about the modular approach.
Gear for this build
The rack is the common piece
The surfboard rack is the reusable part of this setup. The awning mounting hardware is the adapter we used to connect it to our rail-based installation.
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