Cargo Rack

[K.Hunz]

Hi all, been lurking since I purchased my 07 V8 Limited about 9 months ago. I built this hitch rack last summer to haul firewood when camping and coolers when I play in volleyball tournaments. All steel construction, with an 8" rise from the hitch for more clearance.

It works as intended; my only gripe is that when it it loaded full of firewood, I can't get the hatch open. I couldn't think of a better idea that would keep the bark and junk out of the back end. Now that I have the WeatherTech's all around, maybe firewood in the cargo area isn't such a bad idea.

Edit: It's been a while since I built this, and after looking at the picture again, I think it's closer to a 4" rise (accomplished via 8" long 2" square tube at a 45 degree angle). My mistake.

 

[K.Hunz]

Anyone have any suggestions for modification? What do you use for a hitch rack - likes/dislikes?

 

[Mellow77]

I can't really offer you an suggestions but these types of hitches have always left me wondering how you keep the stability side-to-side. Everytime I have seen one of these loaded down they appear to be slightly twisted in the receiver because it's tough to equally distribute weight.

Do you have the same problem when it's loaded down?

 

[RevoRunner]

I'm not sure if it works for sure but I have a cargo carrier like that made by Coleman. The main difference is it leads further away from the vehicle and is a bit raised to stay out of the exhaust. It has served me well, but I can't say that I've tested opening the door with alot of stuff stacked high. Either it wasn't an issue or I just never tested it.

As for a stability... I started using an item that someone here suggested. It's called a hitchrider. The website is messed up right now but if you poke around you might find some pics of it. Works well and clamps the heck out of the 2' bar.

Hope that helps.

 

[K.Hunz]

I checked out the Hitchrider Hitch-Vise. Looks like a great little clamp. I think I will make my own version next time I find the time to get in the shop! Thanks for the link

Here's the Hitch-Vise: Hitch stabilizer: no wobble, anti rattle device for hitch accessories

I was concerned about the exhaust, but I decided that if it becomes a factor, I will have more reason to reroute the exhaust out the side.