Will Contents of Hitch Cargo Carrier Melt from Exhaust

Updated 06/23/2016 | Published 06/21/2016

Question:

Hello, I was really hoping you can help me out. I purchased the 22x59 Rola Cargo Carrier for 2inch Hitches - Steel - 600 lbs for my 2009 Ford Flex along with the Rola Expandable Cargo Bag, 9.5 to 11.5 cubic feet. Im slightly concerned with the clearance of the exhaust possibly melting the cargo bag? It appears to me the exhaust is below the bottom of the rack but since it blows straight out Im concerned. Is there anything I need to do to deflect the exhaust safely or any type of deflector I could install on the rack between the rack and the cargo bag to protect it. Leave on a trip Thursday morning and its worrying me a bit. Is there any cause for concern or is there enough clearance/distance between the exhaust and the cargo bag on the cargo carrier? Thank you very much in advance for your reply on this issue.

asked by: Noel H

Expert Reply:

Exhaust melting cargo on a cargo carrier isn't a super common problem, but we are aware that it does happen on occasion. Especially if the cargo carrier is at the same height as the exhaust, relatively close to it, and/or the material in the carrier is susceptible to melting. We typically recommend at least 12 inches between the exhaust tip and the carrier to prevent melting.

Other factors to consider are the size of the engine, climate, and road conditions. Engines are basically big air pumps. The bigger the motor the more hot air is pumped out of it. Hotter climates will also allow things to get to a melting temperature easier. Steep hills will cause the engine to work harder and create hotter exhaust as well.

To be on the safe side a turn down for the exhaust would be a good idea. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry. You would need to measure the diameter of your exhaust tip to know which would fit.

expert reply by: Jameson C