Tongue Weight Capacity Needed to Transport Motorized 300-lb Wheelchair on Hitch Carrier
Updated 06/07/2019 | Published 06/06/2019
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Question:
I was wondering if a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee is capable to carry the weight from the hitch? The wheelchair company said that it wont, but reading everything on this site, I believe it will.
asked by: Russell E
Expert Reply:
The weight capacity that matters when using a hitch-mounted wheelchair carrier is tongue weight (TW) which is downward force on the hitch and vehicle frame. Both the hitch itself and the vehicle must be rated adequately for the combined weight of the carrier and the wheelchair. A ramp-equipped carrier like Curt # FHG77ZR which weighs 80-lbs means the total TW load on the hitch and vehicle from the carrier and wheelchair will be 380-lbs.
The hitch that we offer for the 1994 Grand Cherokee, the Curt # C13048, is rated for 500-lbs TW. Check your hitch's sticker to confirm its TW rating. I could not access an online owner's manual for your vehicle on the Jeep website, but another source indicates 500-lbs TW capacity. I suggest checking your manual.
Any heavy suspended load like this will benefit from some straps to help support the carrier and prevent excessive motion during travel, an item like # 18050. You'll also need straps to secure the chair to the carrier. I suggest 4-piece strap set # ETBMB-05852 that will let you do both.
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