What Can Help Control the Bouncing and Shaking Seen on Hitch Mounted Cargo Carriers

Updated 05/26/2020 | Published 05/16/2017

Products Featured in This Question

24x60 etrailer Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - Steel - Tilting - Folding - 500 lbs

(589)

$205.44

etrailer Anti-Rattle Hitch Stabilizer for 2" Hitches - Vinyl Coated Steel

(884)

$33.28

Roadmaster Quiet Hitch for 1-1/4" Trailer Hitches

(1537)

$40.94

Question:

Should I be concerned that this cargo carrier appears to shake more in the driving test video than similar non-folding ones?

asked by: Adam D

Expert Reply:

The bouncing and shaking that you saw in the video is the norm on the majority of cargo carriers on the market. The extended location from the hitch causes the carrier to bounce more than a hitch accessory that might sit closer to the vehicle.

There are a few products that can help with the bounce. An anti-rattle device, like # e99007 for 2 inch hitches, can help by securing the cargo carrier's hitch shank to the hitch receiver. The bolts will push the shank up tight against the top of the receiver tube and reduce the rattle and wobble on the carrier.

If you have an 1-1/4 inch hitch, then the Roadmaster Quiet Hitch, # RM-061-125, is what I recommend. The Quiet Hitch works on the same principles as the etrailer product.

I have attached two videos that review both the Roadmaster and etrailer products.

expert reply by: Jared P

Don L.

5/23/2020

On this particular cargo hitch there is some extra play in the folding mechanism. Any ideas there?

Chris R.

5/26/2020

I might have some ideas. Can you tell me what specific model cargo carrier you're using? It's maybe not the most ideal solution, but a really universal application would be to simply use a stabilization strap like # 18050 that attaches to the folded up carrier and your vehicle to reduce movement during travel.