How Can I Transport My Roof Nest Tent on My 2015 Mazda CX-5 with a Bare Roof?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Due to your 2015 Mazda CX-5 having a naked roof, you'll need to look into an alternative method below for installing your tent as there is not a heavy-duty rack compatible with your vehicle that'll carry your 185lb roof nest tent.

If you are determined to have a tent setup on your vehicle, the absolute best way is to use a small utility trailer with crossbars such as the Malone EcoLight Sport Trailer - 58" Crossbars - 400 lbs # MAL53FR. This trailer comes with 400 pounds of static weight capacity and plenty of static weight capacity to support body loads. If you go with this option, I recommend making sure that your tent has the ability to clamp onto square crossbars that measure 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" inches. Also, I recommend making sure that your tent is compatible with the 38-1/2" bar spread of the crossbars.

With the EcoLight, you need a bit more accessories to complete your setup. Since the trailer has a 2-inch coupler, you need a 2-inch ball like the # 40038 (1-inch shank) or # A-90 (1-1/4 inch shank). Another thing you need to consider is the height of the coupler. The EcoLight's coupler sits at 14 inches high. With that measurement, you most likely need a rise/drop hitch to make the connection level with your 2-inch hitch receiver. I went ahead and attached a product page that shows all of our rise/drop hitches for 2-inch hitches.

If you need a hitch and a 4-way wiring harness to activate the trailer's tailights, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13315 along with the T-One Connector # 118563. The Curt hitch comes with a superior gloss outer coat over the base powder coat that provides better protection against rust and corrosion that all the other models we carry. With the T-One Connector, you will be able to activate the trailer's taillights whether you have LEDs or non-LED lights on your CX-5.

expert reply by: Bob C

0