Can a Hitch Adapter for 2 inch Cargo Carriers Fit on Mini Coopers?

Question:

Will this hitch adapter work with the 2005 mini Cooper convertible with the curt hitch installed? MaxxTow Trailer Hitch Receiver Adapter MT70355 I cant tell if the bumper will interfere with the adaptor, or if it will be fine.

asked by: Matt B

Expert Reply:

I am happy to help you find a cargo carrier that will work with your 2005 Mini Cooper, but we do not carry an adapter that is compatible with the Cooper's limited hitch access. From my research your best option is to use a 1-1/4" carrier that is directly compatible with your existing hitch instead of on an adapter.

I recommend the Reese Cargo Carrier # 63155 that has a distance of 1" from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest edge of the basket. This longer distance will give you the clearance you need to connect the cargo carrier to the hitch and keeps your 200 lbs. TW Capacity.

The pin hole on your Curt 1-1/4" Hitch Receiver # C11126 is 5-1/4" from the edge of the bumper so any adapter you use would need at least a 5-1/2" shank to be compatible. The MaxxTow MT70355 for example has a distance of 3" from the hitch pin hole to the back of the 2" receiver so it wont clear your bumper.

In addition to bumper clearance, adapters have the added drawback of cutting your TW capacity in half. Your Curt hitch has a TW capacity of 200 lbs. so using an adapter would cut it down to 100 lbs. not including the weight of the cargo carrier (usually 40 lbs. or more). After installing an adapter and mounting your cargo carrier you would be left with a maximum of 60 lbs. for cargo.

expert reply by: John W