Can Thule Transporter Enclosed Cargo Carrier Be used with a Class 1 Hitch on a 2009 Mazda 5

Question:

I have a Mazda 5 and wondered if this would work with it. The hitches that I have found for the 5 are all class 1 1.25 hitches, so size works and weight works, but class doesnt seem to work. Also, what would it cost to do a hitch and this carrier to a residence? Thanks for your help.

asked by: Rory P

Expert Reply:

The only hitches available for a 2009 Mazda 5 are Class I hitches. The receiver tube for a Class I is drilled differently and has a stop welded in it to prevent Class II accessories from being used. The hitch pin hole on a Class II shank will not line up with the hole on a Class I hitch.

Though the weights are close, the carrier could exceed a Class I hitch capacity. Class I hitches are rated for 200 pounds tongue weight. The carrier weighs about 65 pounds and can carry 150 pounds of cargo which would put the total weight at 215 pounds. It is not much more than the limit, but 15 extra pounds is enough to cause damage or failure.

Currently none of the cargo carrier manufacturers we carry produce an enclosed cargo carrier for Class I hitches.

The next best solution for a Class I hitch cargo carrier is to use a flat cargo carrier like Curt 19x47 Cargo Carrier part # C18110 and a rain proof cargo bag like the etrailer Cargo Bag part # e98990. The carrier weighs 30 pounds and the bags weigh 5 pounds. We have a review video on the cargo bag and I have included a link to it below.

expert reply by: Patrick B