Hitch Weight Capacity When Installing A Cargo Carrier

Question:

Hi! Im getting a hitch putting on my 2012 Mazda CX-9. I want to put a platform hitch like the 24x60 etrailer Cargo Carrier e98874 for 2inch Hitches. However, Im not understanding how much weight can actually go on it. The tongue weight limit is 400lbs, but of course with the lever out from the car its probably about half that? Right? So can you really put 200lbs on it? Do you have to subtract the weight of the actually carrier 48lbs. I wanted to put my cooler on the back of the car its the Yeti Tundra 65 which is heavy when all filled up. I just dont want to get all this work done an then snap the hitch off :. Any tips would be great. Thanks!

asked by: Leah R

Expert Reply:

If the trailer hitch of your 2012 Mazda CX-9 has a 400 lb tongue weight capacity, it means that no more than 400 lbs can be safely suspended from the receiver. The weight of the carrier # e98874 is included in that 400 lb figure. Only if the carrier is used with an extender like part # HES6, the tongue weight capacity of the hitch would be reduced by 50 percent.

You also need to pay attention to the amount of tongue weight your CX-9 is rated for. it may be less than the hitch and you're always limited by your lowest rated component. Check your owner's manual to find the max tongue weight of your Mazda.

The etrailer # e98874 is a value priced carrier that would offer plenty of clearance between the basket and the vehicle. When folded, there's 9-1/2 inches between the hitch pin hole and the closest portion of the basket. When folded flat, there's 19-1/2 inches of clearance.

Again, if you're using a hitch extender, then yes you will lose 50 percent of your tongue weight capacity. So you will only be able to carry up to 200 lbs with an extender. For example if you have the # e98874 which weighs 48 lbs attached to the hitch extender, you have 152 lbs of weight capacity left.

The 2012 CX-9 tongue weight capacity without tow package is 300 pounds TW.