How to Carry a Scooter and Lift on a 2000 Honda Odyssey

Question:

Hello, I will be installing the Draw-Tite Hitch # 75270 on a 2000 Honda Odyssey. The Hitch will be used to hold an electric mobility lift Enmobil, which will carry an electric Scooter Sun runner. I am inquiring to make sure the bolt on hitch will be sufficient to carry the lift and Scooter. Class III 2x2inch The lift is 29inch front to back by 40inch side to side and weighs 500lbs. The scooter weighs 165lbs. I believe the Draw-tite best suits my needs. Would you recommend that one ?

asked by: Brent W

Expert Reply:

I have a recommendation for you, but unfortunately you will not be able to carry your lift and scooter on the back of your 2000 Honda Odyssey using a wheelchair carrier or cargo carrier. While the Draw-Tite Class III Hitch # 75270 can fit on your vehicle and can hold up to 675 lbs., your 2000 Honda Odyssey cannot. Unfortunately, your Honda Odyssey has a Tongue Weight capacity of about 200 lbs. This means you can install the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch # 75270, however, you will not be able to use a hitch-mounted wheelchair carrier on the back of your van.

The best recommendation I have for you, without changing vehicles, is to get a small trailer from your local hardware store and carry your scooter behind you. Your 2000 Honda Odyssey can tow up to 2,000 lbs. so you will be easily able to tow a small trailer behind you. The Draw-Tite Hitch # 75270 will be a great choice for towing a small trailer and I attached an installation video for this hitch on a 2000 Honda Odyssey which you may find helpful.

When carrying your scooter, you may want to use tie down straps similar to Erickson Ratchet Tie-Down Straps w/ Web Clamps # EM31353 to keep your scooter secure. I attached a review video of these tie down straps as well.

If you choose to tow a trailer, you will also need a wiring harness. I recommend the Tow Ready T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118336. This will allow the lights on your trailer to work. I attached an installation video of this wiring harness on a 2000 Honda Odyssey which you may want to check out. You will also need a ball mount to tow a trailer and I attached a help article on ball mounts so you may choose the correct one for your application.