Recommended Wheelchair Carrier for Class I Hitch on 2003 Honda Civic

Question:

I have a 2003 Honda Civic , which has a 1 1/4 hitch install . Class 1 .I want to do mount a carrier . Will you share with me the best products to do this .The only thing that will be carried is a wheelchair . Thank you

asked by: Ned

Expert Reply:

I do have some possible solutions for you, however we do not currently offer any carriers that can work with a heavy wheelchair on a Class I hitch like the one you have on your 2003 Honda Civic. Class I hitches are not rated to handle the weight of a heavier wheelchair and wheelchair carrier behind the vehicle.

If the wheelchair you plan on carrying is a standard lightweight folding wheelchair, you can use a cargo carrier with your trailer hitch. The lightest carrier that is compatible with a Class I hitch is the Curt Cargo Carrior # C18145. This has a weight capacity of 300 pounds (although keep in mind the maximum tongue weight capacity of a Class I hitch is 200 pounds) and inside dimensions of 46-3/8 inches long and 17-9/16 inches wide. If this will work for you, I also recommend adding tie-down straps # EM31352 to secure the wheelchair to the carrier.

If you have a heavier, electric wheelchair, the best option would be to obtain a small utility trailer from a local dealer to transport the wheelchair. If you decide to do this, you will also need a wiring kit like the Curt Circuit Protected Converter # C56175 to install a 4-way trailer connector to power its rear lights.

You will also need a ball mount to connect with the trailer. I have included our selection of ball mounts as well as a helpful article explaining how to choose the correct one for your setup.

expert reply by: Chris R