Can I Install Mounted Cargo Carrier With etrailer e98864 Trailer Hitch on 2009 Toyota RAV 4

Question:

I am looking to add a hitch and flat cargo carrier to my 2009 Toyota RAV4. Does this hitch have the clearance past the spare tire to add a basic cargo carrier? Or is that contingent upon the cargo carriers arm length? And what is the weight allowance that will be supported by the hitch for that type of setup? Thanks for any help.

asked by: Curtis

Expert Reply:

When the etrailer # e98864 Trailer Hitch is installed on the 2006-2011 Toyota Rav 4, the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the edge of the spare tire measures 8 inches. You would need to use a cargo carrier that has clearance of more than 7 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the front edge of the carrier. You should have no problem using a cargo carrier with this hitch. The hitch has a 525 lb tongue weight capacity, which is the maximum amount of downward force the hitch itself could withstand. It's likely that the hitch would pull out of the underside of the vehicle before the hitch itself would fail. It is a strong hitch but you will need to check with your owner's manual. If your vehicle's capacity is less that the 525 lbs, then you would go with the lower limit.

For a flat cargo carrier, I would recommend the Draw-Tite Folding Cargo Carrier, part # 6502. This carrier can be folded up when you are not carrying cargo.

To secure a cargo carrier to your hitch, you will need to use Pin and Clip, part # PC3. For increased security and to deter theft, I would recommend a locking hitch pin like the Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock, part # e98880.

I have linked an FAQ on hitch mounted cargo carriers. I have also linked a video installation and instructions..