Solution for Transporting Power Wheel Chair with 2014 Ford Explorer

Question:

I have a 2014 Ford Explorer with a factory class II hitch. I need to install a Harmar Wheel chair lift to carry my wifes Power Wheel Chair. Chair weighs about 250lbs and the Harmar adds another 100lbs. To accommodate, I need to drop the hitch height current at 20inch by about 4. Will the 4inch extension work or will this reduce tongue weight too much. If so, what do I need? Thanks

asked by: Keith K

Expert Reply:

Using any type of hitch adapter is going to reduce the tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch by 50%. This means that if the trailer hitch on your 2014 Ford Explorer has a tongue weight capacity of 500 pounds, this will be reduced to 250 pounds when using the adapter.

You mentioned in your question that you have a Class II trailer hitch on your Ford Explorer. I recommend verifying this as typically this vehicle will have a Class III receiver installed. A Class II trailer hitch is going to have a lower weight capacity along with a smaller, 1-1/4 inch receiver. You will also want to determine the tongue weight capacity of your particular hitch, as this can vary between models.

If you find that you can remain below the reduced capacity of your trailer hitch with your wheelchair carrier, then I recommend looking at the Roadmaster High-Low Adapter # RM-048-4. This adapter features a 4 inch drop or rise and an overall length of 14-5/8 inches.

If you are unable to stay under the reduced capacity of the hitch, then your best option for transporting your Power Wheel Chair will be with a small utility trailer that you can tow with your trailer hitch.

expert reply by: Chris R