Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier with Ramp that Will Clear the Spare Tire on a 2010 FJ Cruiser

Question:

I have a 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser and it has the spare tire on the rear. I am trying to determine if this rack will fit under the rear of the tire or whether there is any way to modify i.e. remove the side rail on the bumper side of the rack. On the FJ, the center of the pin hole on the hitch mount is flush with the back side of the rear bumper if you held a straight edge vertically against the rear bumper it would run in line with the center of the pin hole. At the rear bumper the tire is 7 7/8 above the center of the pin hole. The tire sits on the rear hatch door at a slight angle, so the further out you go the higher it is from the level of the center of the pin hole. The tire reaches approximately 6 1/4 inches out from the center of the pin hole and at that point the height is approximately 8 3/4 from the level of the center of the pin hole. Sorry to be so verbose, but I am hoping there is a way to figure this out without buying it and finding it will not work and having to ship it back! Thank you!

asked by: Eric D

Expert Reply:

Thank you for the extensive measurements you have provided. That will help out a lot in determining cargo carrier fit. Based on the measurements, we do have a few cargo carriers that will fit, but the The Moover Transporter System, # 5801600, will not fit. The problem is that the spare tire will make contact with the cargo carrier rails, and the ramp may not be able to shut properly.

Instead, I recommend a carrier that will extend out beyond the spare tire so the tire is not an issue. Take a look at the Hitch Mounted Wheel Chair and Scooter Carrier with 60 inch Long Ramp, # SC500. This carrier measures 15-1/2 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the nearest edge of the carrier when folded down (6-1/2 when folded up). I have included a link to a video review below.

Another one that will fit is the Pro Series Steel Solo Cargo Carrier and Folding Ramp, # PS10401-10402. This carrier offers a 4 inch rise, but also extends 12 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the carrier platform. This carrier has the same 48x32 measurement as the carrier you reference.

Last, we have the Trailer Hitch Mounted Mobility Scooter Carrier with Fold Down Ramp, # MSCR. This carrier measures 7 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the carrier platform. This carrier would be closest to the rear of the vehicle. With the measurements you provide it would be 3/4 inches from the spare tire.

expert reply by: Michael H