Cargo Carrier Addition to RV - GVWR and OCCC

Rumble  Seat - This was the test for the carrier. We transported this to our summer lily pad, about 120 miles.

The door does clear the carrier and the cargo and can be fully opened

We decided to add a cargo carrier. This was for use on our longer treks with the goal to move some of the stuff we transport out of the Roadtrek and free up interior space, or allow us to carry a few more things on longer treks. We find ourselves carrying "all weather" gear or an inflatable canoe and we usually don't need it until we arrive at our destination.  

We had no need to transport both bicycles and a carrier. If that was a requirement there are carriers with hitches that can simultaneously accommodate a bike rack, but we keep bicycles at each of our "lily pads". We can remove the cargo carrier and install the bike carrier if we desire.

Bicycle Carrier while in Florida

After some research I went with a "Haul Master" Heavy Duty Cargo Carrier from Harbor Freight.  The version I chose weighs about 50 lbs and folds.  Note: "Some assembly required".  Be aware that the weight capacity is determined in part by the hitch and capacity of the vehicle. I have no intention of loading the carrier beyond about 200 lbs. 

There are specifications for each Roadtrek which ultimately determine how much weight the vehicle can carry. I've included the specs for my 210P here. Because all of the weight of the carrier will be on the axles, I need to be mindful of the vehicle load.  One way to avoid exceeding the load specifications of my Roadtrek is to carry less fluids (water, waste).  The fresh water in my 210 can weigh 250 lbs. (30 gallons fresh water at 8.345 lbs per gallon). The 33 gallons gray + black tanks can add another 275 lbs).

A hitch extension is required to clear the tire carrier. I chose a rugged, slightly longer than necessary Curtis.  This adds 18 inches from pin to pin and allows me to open the right rear door completely with the carrier in the horizontal position.  The price of the carrier and a rugged nylon cover was less than $99 because of a sale and I also had a coupon.  To that I added the cost of the Curtis extension,  pin locks and nylon webbing tie-downs.

My selection criteria included:

• Intermittent use and easy storage when not in use.
• Flexibility for intended use.
• Basket dimensions approximately 19 x 60 inches.
• Rear door access when the carrier is on the Roadtrek.
• To be within allowable vehicle weight limits.
• Modest cost.

Cargo carrier specifications:

• Cargo space approximately 19" x 60".
• Weight Capacity: 450 Lb on 2 inch Class III hitch with 500 Lb. Tongue. (Higher with a Class IV hitch).
• Foldable.
• Assembly Required.
• Weight of cargo carrier 50 lbs, with hitch extension total about 70 lbs.

An extension was necessary to clear the tire carrier.  I used one longer than necessary. My decision to use an extension required a reduction in the amount of weight on the the carrier. The actual weight limit is a consequence of the hitch on the Roadtrek, the extension, and the carrier.

My Roadtrek 210P has a 2 inch receiver Class IV hitch.  These are the specifications according to the information provided with the vehicle by Roadtrek and Chevrolet. Your specification are probably different:

• 6.0 L V-8 engine on 3500 extended chassis (155" wheelbase) with 3.42 Axle Ratio.
• "Towing - Tow Weight" approximately 7,650 lbs. Note: this is approximate, as the GCWR must not be exceeded. Total weight of vehicle, contents and trailer must not exceed 16,000 lbs. That is per the specifications for my Roadtrek.
• "Towing - Tongue Weight" is 1,000 lbs. (The extension reduces this, see below).
• The GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) is 9,600 lbs.
• The OCCC (combined weigh of cargo, liquids, tongue weight and occupants) is 1,246 lbs.
• GAWR front (Gross Axle Weight Rating, Front) is 4,300 lbs.
• GAWR Rear (Gross Axle Weight Rating, Rear) is 6,084 lbs.
• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating, vehicle, passenger, contents and trailer) =  16,000 lbs.

Note: Check your 200, 210, 170 or 190 Roadtrek Chevrolet or Dodge Manual and Roadtrek data sheet for your model for actual towing limitations for your Roadtrek. Do not rely upon the specification for my 210P.

Here is a sample data sheet, based upon my vehicle. Use yours for determining the specifics for your Roadtrek. I have blocked out some vehicle specific identifying info:

Sample Data Sheet - My Roadtrek - Use yours to determine your Roadtrek data

According to Curtis, the extension reduces the tongue weight to a maximum 350 lbs. 

According to the carrier manual it is designed for a maximum 750 lbs with a Class IV  hitch and 450 lbs with a Class III hitch.  You could say it is overbuilt for my purpose. I wanted something sufficiently rugged. There is a trade-off using a heavier cargo carrier. The weight of the carrier, hitch extension, etc. is probably about 70 lbs.  This reduces the actual cargo weight I can safely transport in the carrier. 

I have no intentions of loading the carrier beyond 200 lbs. One issue is side-by-side weight distribution. Balancing loads is not always possible and that will put twisting moment into the hitch connections. I want to avoid those bending moments.

Photo of carrier in the down position. This has ample clearance to open the door, even with stuff in the carrier:

Photo of carrier in the up position. Note the ample clearance to the tire carrier:

Harbor Freight Photo of 54-1/2 In. Expandable Nylon Cargo Carrier Cover:

Some assembly required: I did this myself and it is important to realize that the assembled unit is about 50 lbs. Moving the major pieces around, attaching struts, etc. requires some upper body strength.  It went together well, as usual it is prudent to lay out the parts, plan the work and take one's time to do it properly.  The diagrams included were sufficient.  I used a crescent wrench and a socket set to do this.  The instructions recommend assembly on a flat surface. After putting the two main components together I raised the main assembly and leaned it against a wall so I could work on the struts which support it while I was standing.

In the box

Major components

Minor components

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