Does the 200 lb Tongue Weight Capacity of Curt Class I Trailer Hitch Apply to Hitch Accessories

Updated 06/19/2014 | Published 06/17/2014

Question:

I have a general question about trailer hitches. I have a hitch that says on the that it has a 200lb tongue weight. I understand what that means, but my question is about a trailer hitch platform. Does the tongue weight still apply to this? If i were to load the platform that doesnt use the , but slid directly into the hitch that is attached to the frame could I go over the 200 lbs? Thank you for your help.

asked by: Matt M

Expert Reply:

Tongue weight represents the maximum amount of downward force that can be safely suspended from the hitch, whether it be tongue load applied from a trailer coupler, or a hitch mounted accessory like a bike rack or a cargo carrying tray like the # PS1040100 you looked at. In the case of your hitch, the weight of the cargo carrier plus whatever is loaded on it could not exceed 200 lbs.

expert reply by: Mike L