Question:
I am trying to find a cargo carrier that is suitable for our new 2013 Acura RDX which came with a class 1, unfortunately. I would like to use this carrier for some luggage etc on trips. The lighter weight the carrier the more I could carry. Which carrier do you recommend?
asked by: P S
Expert Reply:
At this time we only have two hitch mounted cargo carriers that are recommended for a Class I trailer hitch and those are the Draw-Tite Cargo Carrier, # 6500, and the Surco Cargo Carrier, # 52017. These cargo carriers have the same weight just under 49 lbs. I have linked video reviews of both cargo carriers for you to check out.
The reason there are only two cargo carriers recommended for Class I hitches is because Class I trailer hitches have a metal tab in the receiver to prevent certain accessories that are not compatible with class I hitches to be used with them. Class I hitches typically have a low tongue weight capacity at 200 lbs and all of the hitch mounted cargo carriers have weight capacities over 200 lbs, so it would be easy to exceed the tongue weight of the hitch.
If the 200 lb tongue weight capacity of the Class I hitch is exceeded, then the hitch, carrier and/or vehicle could be damaged. No matter what cargo carrier you choose, you will be limited by your trailer hitches tongue weight capacity. There should be a sticker on your trailer hitch that indicates the tongue weight or TW capacity.
The Curt Cargo Carrier, # C18145, that you referenced is only recommended for Class II or higher trailer hitches. This cargo carrier will fit in Curt Class I hitches because they do not have the metal tab in the receiver, but you will need to check your trailer hitch or verify with your dealer if your OEM trailer hitch was manufactured by Curt or if it has the metal tab in the receiver to prevent accessories from fully seating in the receiver.
I have attached a photo showing where the tab would be located on a Class I trailer hitch.
If your Class I hitch is simply bolted on and is not welded on, then you could remove your current hitch and add a Class III trailer hitch like the Hidden Hitch Trailer Hitch, # 87584. I have attached a link to the installation instructions for this hitch for you to review.
expert reply by: John H
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Products Referenced in This Question
20x48 Cargo Carrier For 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver
Product Summary:
Flat Carrier
Fixed Carrier
Steel
300 lbs
20 x 48 Inch
Product Specs:
6.7 Square Feet
Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
Class 1
Class 2
20x48 Cargo Carrier Fits 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver Hitch
Product Summary:
Flat Carrier
Fixed Carrier
Steel
300 lbs
20 x 48 Inch
Product Specs:
6.7 Square Feet
Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
Class 1
Class 2
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt 20x48 Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches
Product Summary:
Flat Carrier
Fixed Carrier
Steel
500 lbs
20 x 48 Inch
Product Specs:
6.7 Square Feet
Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
Fits 2 Inch Hitch
Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
Class 2
Class 3
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Instructions for 6500
Draw-Tite 20 by 48 Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4 Inch Hitches Review - Video
