Can Custom Cargo Box be Mounted toYakima Swinging Enclosed Cargo Carrier

Question:

Is there any reason why I couldnt mount my own cargo box to the Rola Swing-Away Arm such that the front edge of the cargo box rested on top of my bumper? I am thinking this would help distribute the load between the hitch and the bumper. I realize it would require custom additions to the existing brackets that I would need to fabricate. I have a Honda Element and am concerned about the load being so far away from the rear of the car and would like to stabilize the load for rough roads. Having the cargo box rub against the car is no problem since the rear hatch it is covered in old faded plastic on the exterior as is the bumper.

asked by: Chris T

Expert Reply:

Theoretically you could mount your own custom-made cargo box on the arm of the Yakima EXO Swing Away Enclosed Cargo Carrier - 2" Hitches - 10 cu ft - 100 lbs # Y62VR, though I do have to note that any alterations will void the carrier's warranty.

I do understand having a concern about the weight, but so long as you have the right hitch and don't overload the carrier, this won't be an issue.

Your 2005 Honda Element has a pair of Class III trailer hitches with 2" receivers that fit, the etrailer Trailer Hitch # e78KR and Curt Trailer Hitch # 13574. These hitches have a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs, and the Yakima EXO only has a 100-pound capacity and the swing away arm alone weighs 64 lbs. If you decide to go with the homemade carrier option, I would not be able to guarantee any type of capacity. Instead of purchasing the entire Yakima EXO box, you could purchase the base without the box with part # Y34VR. This part does not list a capacity.

I have added links to video reviews of the carrier for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S