When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
@wildta@maalox I didn't want to hijack the other build critique thread so figured i'd start a new one to respond to you guys and also maybe someone in the future can reference this.
I was in the garage messing around so I mounted it and snapped a few pics below with how I usually have it set-up for visuals, I'll snap some pics tomorrow with the ratchet straps and netting installed. I also have a roof rack and roof box but its cumbersome to install and remove in comparison, also the roof box is best used for skis, duffel bags, and other soft items. Strollers, cooler, containers wont go up there unless you opt for the roof basket which I considered.
As for the hitch mounted rack, came to the conclusion that you don't really need the pricey aluminum frame fancy ones. I purchased this exact one ( https://amzn.to/3SSOozm ) for about $65, came with netting, ratchet straps, and silencer (not necessary). Arrives disassembled and is easily put together with included nuts and bolts w/ the nylon non-loosening insert (can add locktite but not necessary imo). Pro-tip if you are using in the winter or salted roads, after assembly give it a nice coating or two of undercarriage spray ( https://amzn.to/3TuycpH ).
I'm semi-retired and have been moving full car loads + rack load every weekend NYC to PA (120 miles each way, 80+mph cruising speed) rack loaded with 250+ lbs, with no issues, no difference in drivability/handling/MPG, don't even notice its there.
The containers in the photos below are "round trip boxes" that are pretty heavy duty from my wife's business ( https://amzn.to/4bWfazz ) not necessary but they have grooves that the ratchet straps hook nicely on to. When on a road trip or driving though weather, I either tarp the cargo then strap down, or if its just containers I put them into 30gal garbage bags then strap down. Never an issue even through a recent big snow storm.
This particular rack does not fold but there are folding ones which would probably be more convenient for those who use it often or find themselves in tight parking locations. Not too cumbersome taking it off and tossing it into the car if needed, or can just leave it installed with a locking pin.
Parking sensors, with cargo loaded the sensors will go off but the cameras take over to lead the way.
Does this block your backup camera view? With the containers not visible through the rear window, how do you do backups?
Depends how much cargo you would load, typically for road trips I load it at the single box level (photos in first post) with a stroller on top of the containers. There is good view for rear camera and also enough room for the trunk lid to open/close to let the dog in and out. If I stack the containers two high, which I only do for moving purposes, it will block the rear cam view and I go back to basics with mirrors.
Planned removal of my winter set-up this past weekend, here was the transport of two wheels on the rear rack (other two wheels in trunk).
Added pic of how the rear-view cam looks when loaded, for anyone wondering.
I have a similar rack I use once in a while. I modified mine with two orange driveway marker rods mounted on the rack corners so I don't forget it's there.
03-03-2024, 02:25 AM
