Should a Hitch Extender be Used with Rola 22 x 56 Cargo Carrier # 59500 On A Chevy Conversion Van

Expert Reply:

Using an extension like the Hidden Hitch Extender, part # 80307, with the Rola 22 x 56 Cargo Carrier, part # 59500 would gain you more clearance, but it would also lower the tongue weight capacity of your hitch by 50 percent. If your hitch has a 500 pound tongue weight capacity, using the extension would cut that amount in half. This would mean that the carrier you choose and all the gear on it could weigh no more than 250 lbs.

I would recommend the Curt 20 x 60 inch Railed Cargo Carrier, part # C18130, which offers an adjustable shank that would raise the carrier 3 inches above the level of the receiver. The shank will also adjust for clearance between the vehicle and the carrier, for a maximum distance between the hitch pin hole and the carrier of 16-1/4 inches. This carrier would provide more ground clearance, and more distance between the vehicle and the carrier without limiting your capacity like using an extender would.

To find out the clearance you will need to install a hitch cargo carrier on your Chevy Conversion Van and be able to clear the spare tire, you will need to take a measurement on your van. The measurement is from the center of your hitch pin hole on your hitch to the back edge of the spare tire. All of our cargo carriers will have a measurement listed on its product page that will say measures from the center of the hitch pin hole to the carrier platform. You will want a cargo carrier with a measurement that will be greater than what you measured on your van.

expert reply by: Mike L