Hitch and Cargo Carrier Recommendation for 2006 Toyota Highlander that Sits Above Exhaust

Question:

Hello, I am looking at the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2 Item # 13530 for our 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Im hoping to use a hitch cargo carrier flat from a vehicle with a 2 hitch receiver that needed a riser to avoid exhaust melt. Would I be able to use a riser/adapter with this hitch receiver? Thank you for any and all information provided. Best,

asked by: Jeremy W

Expert Reply:

The Curt trailer hitch part # 13530 is a great choice for your 2006 Toyota Highlander for carrying a cargo carrier. Since hitch adapters cut the capacity of the hitch they are installed in by 50 percent the best choice is to go with a carrier that has the needed rise built into it.

We have 3 options. We have the enclosed carrier # M2205 with a 5-1/2" shank rise. We have the Reese # 63153 with a 2-1/2 " shank rise. And finally, we have the etrailer carrier # e98874 with the 2" shank rise.

If you are looking for an open carrier, the etrailer model # e98874 sits 19-1\2 inches from the hitch pin hole to the closest edge of the carrier. This fact along with the 2" rise might solve your exhaust issue. You would also need to see if you have at least 9-1/2 inches clearance if you wish to use this rack in the folded position when not in use. It also has a tilting feature for when it is loaded.