Recommended Suspension Enhancement To Haul A 350lb Wheelchair On The Back Of A 2007 Honda Odyssey

Published 09/01/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(1867)

$195.44

Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs - Rear Axle

(715)

$127.93

Question:

Hello, I am looking at hauling an electric wheelchair for my wife on the back of our 2007 Odyssey, it is a Quantum J4 weighing 350LBS Wheelchair. I think the Hitch Receiver Item # 75270 Wheelchair Carrier # FHG67ZR would be best. My concern is how low the carrier will sit to the ground with 350LBS on the back of the van. Do you happen to have any idea the distance from the ground it might be? Is there an adapter that can raise it up in case it is too low? Or have another idea of how to make sure it is not too low? Thank you for the help

asked by: Jody G

Expert Reply:

From the top of the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75270, when installed on your 2007 Honda Odyssey, to the ground is going to be approximately 12-3/4". Adding on a 350lb wheelchair and 55lb carrier # FHG67ZR is definitely going to have the suspension sag a bit. Hitch adapters unfortunately reduce the capacity of the hitch when used by 50%, so you wouldn't be able to use one in this case since you need to be able to handle the weight.

Instead of using an adapter to increase the height you can help support the suspension to prevent the sag with Firestone Coil-Rite Air Helper Springs # F4179. These air springs will slip inside the rear coils and help stiffen them up to prevent them from compressing. The more psi you add the stiffer the air spring and coils will become.

expert reply by: Kevin C