Hitch Recommendation for a 2016 Jeep Patriot with a 500lb Capacity Cargo Carrier

Question:

I am looking for a hitch for my 2016 Jeep Patriot. I will be using a cargo carrier with it that can hold up to 500 lbs. I was originally going to purchase the Curt 13081 but after further research is this not my best option because of what I am going to use it for? I am not sure if its strong enough based on the tongue weight and also it appears I have to use a stabilization strap if I go with the Curt. If I go with the Draw-Tite 75712will I not need a stabilization strap correct? Thanks for your advice.

asked by: Jaime B

Expert Reply:

You are correct, I would not recommend the Curt hitch # C13081 because it has a tongue weight capacity of below 500lbs. If you plan on fully loading your cargo carrier to the limit you will want to go with the Draw-Tite # 75712 because of the higher tongue weight rating.

Now it's important to calculate the weight of your carrier into the tongue weight capacity as well as the cargo to be sure you don't go over capacity. Another very important thing to check is your owners manual because your vehicle itself may not have the load capacity for these items in addition to the passengers and weight of any load within the vehicle. See page 396-399 in the owners manual.

Per Curt's warranty requirements, all non-trailer loads (bike racks, cargo carriers, etc) must be supported by stabilizing straps, such as # 18050. Even if you plan on carrying lets say a 20lb bag on the cargo carrier, Curt still requires you for warranty purposes to use this strap. This is something that only pertains to the Curt branded hitches, so you are correct again, in that you will not need this for the Draw-Tite trailer hitches.

I have linked all the products mentioned above as well as a couple installation videos for your convenience.

expert reply by: Jackie C