Trailer Hitch Recommendation for 2009 Ford Flex to Carry Scooter Carrier

Question:

I have a 2009 Ford Flex AWD with the standard Class I towing package there is an optional Class III package. I want to mount a hitch lift for my scooter. The scooter weighs 188 lbs and the hitch lift is 107 lbs. The hitch lift does not have any wheels or axle, it attaches to the hitch receiver and is cantilevered out the back. The Ford specs show GCWR = 7050 lb Trailer Weight Range = 2000 lb Tongue Load = 200 lb The Lift MFG says that their lift is compatible, but when I add it up it exceeds the OEM Tongue load of 200 lbs. I call the MFG back and they say that the OEM numbers are for a Trailer and this is not a Trailer and that the hitch installed at the factory is the same for the the optional Class III towing package that allows a 450 lb tongue weight. So I am somewhat confused on the whole matter. Hoping you can shed some light on the use of OEM Trailerinch specs for a non-Trailer hitch mounted scooter lift. Hope my question makes sense and you are able to reply. If you need more information please let me know.

asked by: Chuck

Expert Reply:

The lift manufacturer is not giving you accurate information. Tongue weight figures are the same for if the setup is towing or carrying a hitch accessory. If anything you would want to be more cautious not exceeding that figure with a non-supported load like a carrier than with a trailer.

For your 2009 Ford Flex you will need to install a Class III hitch to carry the carrier and the scooter.

For that you would need our Draw Tite hitch part # 75679 which has a 400 lb tongue weight capacity.

expert reply by: Jameson C