Storing kayak in pole barn

I'm keeping my yak in a pole barn with exposed beams about 15-20 high. I'd like to rig some sort of pulley and strap system to keep the boat up and out of the way. Any ideas or suggestions? Photos?

Thanks,
Jay

With a ceiling that high, have you given any though to storing the yak on end.  Yes, they store just fine this way.

-Allen

was thinking, go to our sponsor, outdoor play.com, or one of the many useful links that pop up here and get yourself one of the hanging storage systems that allows up to 3 yaks to be stored on thier sides in a sling type deal. some of the better ones even have a small snatch block and rope system to raise and lower them...i've seen them anywheres from 35.00 up to about 80.00 , depends on how fancy you want to get...REI member? they have them too under kayak accessories..  with that much room, even it being a pole barn, i'm envious.. never enough room to properly shelter a mans playthings...

With a ceiling that high, have you given any though to storing the yak on end.  Yes, they store just fine this way.

-Allen

Are you talking about hanging it from one end or possibly putting a pad down and strapping it to the wall with the bow or stern on the pad? Hanging from one end would only require a simple pulley attached to a beam. Where would it be safe to attach a line to hang from?

Jay

I think Allen just means.. put a pad down, put it up on one end and lean it into the corner of the barn.  If the corners are occupied, I'm sure you can make something to prevent the kayak from falling over.

Brian

I think Allen just means.. put a pad down, put it up on one end and lean it into the corner of the barn.  If the corners are occupied, I'm sure you can make something to prevent the kayak from falling over.

Brian

That's what I figured. However, I'd really like to lift it up into the overhead as wall space is at a premium (lots of tools and toys).

Jay

here's what i meant;
http://www.outdoorplay.com/store/productlist.asp?F=2&PDID=149&DID=154

The device Richard links to is only good for ceilings up to 9 ft.  You might be able to replace the lines with longer ones.

Alternatively, you could still try making your own.  I think setting up the pulleys and straps should be pretty straight forward.  You'll need to decide whether or not the weight of the kayak deserves the mechanical advantage of a simple block and tackle system, but that will increase the amount of line you'll need.  I'd also consider some sort of ratcheting mechanism that prevents you from accidentally dropping your kayak 20 ft.  Maybe a simple belaying device from the world of rock climbing would be enough.

Brian

The device Richard links to is only good for ceilings up to 9 ft.  You might be able to replace the lines with longer ones.

Alternatively, you could still try making your own.  I think setting up the pulleys and straps should be pretty straight forward.  You'll need to decide whether or not the weight of the kayak deserves the mechanical advantage of a simple block and tackle system, but that will increase the amount of line you'll need.  I'd also consider some sort of ratcheting mechanism that prevents you from accidentally dropping your kayak 20 ft.  Maybe a simple belaying device from the world of rock climbing would be enough.

Brian

Yes, I looked at the item at that website and realized it wouldn't be too difficult to rig the same thing with a couple of pulleys, webbing and eye bolts. I hadn't thought about a ratcheting mechanism. I thought about tying two in-line loops and securing them to a 'biner: one at the yak at the high point and one near or on the ground. I don't think I'll need any mechanical advantage to hoist it though. If I do, I doubt I'd be able to get it up on my car.

Jay

From http://www.oceankayak.com/product_support/storage.html

Kayaks should be stored on edge, upside down, standing, or hanging horizontally. When hanging the boats, run straps around the boat near the cockpit. A word of caution - using the scupper holes may cause distortion and hanging from the toggle handles may put undue strain on them. Storing the boat bottom side down may also cause distortion. Kayak storage systems are available from your dealer.

Hanging the kayak upside down is probably your best bet.

-Allen

It's done. See gallery or new topic post for photos.

Jay

Topic post link..
http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php/topic,1071.0.html

Gallery link..
http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?action=gallery;su=user;cat=26;u=148