Ramped Scooter Carrier for Use on 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan

Question:

Hello I have a 2014 Grand Caravan and I want to install a Scooter carrier possibly the Flint Hill Goods FHG77ZR. However the scooter and carrier would weigh 360 Lbs together. The Caravan has a tongue weight of 360Lbs. Is there anything to modify on the Caravan which can increase the tongue weight or raise the rear when carrying the scooter. Is there anything that can be done so that I can still place things in the cargo area and use the carrier. I am not sure if the information I have been given is correct about having to install a lift kit to shift weight back to the front or and replace the existing shocks with heavy duty ones. Please advise. Thank you.

asked by: Gianfranco G

Expert Reply:

If your 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan owner's manual indicates the vehicle's maximum tongue weight capacity is 360-lbs, then that is the maximum weight that can be placed on its hitch. If the combined weight of your scooter and the carrier you wish to use exceeds this weight capacity then you will need to use a small trailer instead of a hitch mount carrier to transport the scooter. At the 360 pounds that you mentioned, you would be fine.

Exceeding the vehicle's (or the hitch's) rated capacities can result in damage to the vehicle, hitch or your scooter so this is to be avoided. Unfortunately, there is no way to increase the vehicle's or hitch's tongue weight capacity. Heavy-duty shocks will change the ride quality and may help reduce rear-end sag but will not increase the hitch or vehicle weight capacity. Your local Dodge dealership (and your owner's manual) are the best places to get straight information about the vehicle's weight-carrying capacities.

The MaxxTow Cargo Carrier with Pivoting Ramp # MT70275 that you referenced fits 2-inch trailer hitches. Please note that your 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan could be fitted with this size hitch, or with a smaller 1-1/4-inch Class II type. This carrier cannot be used in the smaller size hitch.

You may be able to locally source a small utility trailer at an outdoor or farm store. Your Grand Caravan will need a 4-pole wiring harness to connect to the trailer if it has lights; you can use # C56331 from Curt. I have linked an installation video for you that shows how to install the harness.

To tow a trailer you will need also need a ball mount and hitch ball. It is important that a trailer be level so you will want to select a ball mount that allows the trailer to be level with the ground when it is hitched. The linked article explains how to measure to choose the correct ball mount.

expert reply by: Adam R