Tongue Weight Capacity of Hitch and etrailer Cargo Carrier # e98874

Question:

Will Hitch-Cargo-Carrier e98874 fold appropriately on a 2011 Toyota RAV4? Is a tongue weight concern for a carrier like this? What do you recommend?

asked by: Thomas D

Expert Reply:

If your 2011 Toyota RAV4 has a 2-inch hitch receiver like Curt # C13149 then the etrailer Folding Cargo Carrier # e98874 will fit the hitch and will clear the rear of the vehicle even when folded. The etrailer cargo carrier # e98874 provides 9-1/2 inches of clearance from its hitch pin hole even when folded and this is plenty for your RAV4 even if it has the rear spare tire.

In terms of weight capacity the lowest-rated item in the system, between the vehicle, hitch and carrier, determines the overall weight carrying capacity. The Curt hitch # C13149 is rated for 525-lbs of tongue weight (TW) while the cargo basket has a 500-lb rating. You'll want to check your RAV4 owner's manual to confirm the car's own TW rating. If you have a smaller 1-1/4-inch Class II hitch please note that you'll need a different carrier, Curt # C18110, which has a 300-lb capacity.

Keep in mind that the weight of the empty carrier, about 48-lbs, counts against the hitch and car capacities. Let's say for example that your manual says the car has a 400-lb TW rating. This means that after you account for the carrier's 48-lb weight you then have a remaining cargo weight limit of 352-lbs.

If you care to lock the carrier to your hitch you can use Anti-Rattle Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock # 63232. For a cargo net use part # C18201 to help secure your items.