Trailer Hitch And Cargo Carrier With Increased Ground Clearance For 2021 Toyota RAV4
Published 04/06/2021
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Question:
I want to install a trailer hitch on my 2021 Rav4 XLE Hybrid to be used primarily for a cargo carrier and a small aluminum boat with trailer. Ive heard that the hitch will render the power lift gate which we have inoperable. Is there a hitch that will allow the power lift gate to continue to be operable? Also, ground clearance is important because the vehicles exhaust is closely in line with the cargo rack. To minimize the possibility of exhaust heat damaging the cargo on the carrier, I want to maximize ground clearance as much as practical. Any suggestions?
asked by: Robert P
Helpful Expert Reply:
All of the trailer hitch receivers available for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 will allow you to use the hands-free lift gate option, but you will have to kick to the side of the receiver tube instead of the middle. That being said, I recommend going with the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13416 which is the one you were looking at. This is the most affordable option but will suit your needs well. Since it is 2", it will be compatible with a large variety of hitch-mounted accessories.
In regard to the exhaust heat possibly damaging the cargo carrier, I agree that increasing ground clearance is a great idea to help with this since the receiver is nearly inline with the tailpipes (all receivers for your vehicle have approximately the same ground clearance). You can increase the ground clearance of your cargo rack by installing a hitch adapter such as Malone 2" Dual Purpose Hitch Receiver # MPG544. This will increase your carrier's ground clearance by 7-1/2" but it will also reduce your hitch's overall capacity by 50%.
To get around the 50% loss in hitch capacity, I recommend using a cargo carrier that already has a raised shank so that you do not need an adapter. The 19x47 Curt Cargo Carrier for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Steel - 300 lbs # C18110 had 3-3/4" of shank rise which should help you out with ground clearance. I attached demonstration videos for you.
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