Any suggestions for luggage racks/cargo carriers for convertibles?

Question

I was looking for suggestions for luggage racks or cargo carriers for a 2005 PT Cruiser convertible.

I found the kind that attach to the trailer hitch like this one:

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-CC114~52017.htm

The only problem with the type pictured above that the hitch from Chrysler is only rated for a tongue weight of 100 lbs. If the carrier already weighs 50 lbs it seems like a lot of trouble to go through to carry 50 lbs.

I asked about changing the hitch to a proper class one hitch that would be rated for the full 200 lbs tongue weight but I've had a couple of places tell me that it's a bad idea to exceed the recommended 100 lb limit set by Chrysler. (because the extra weight may mess up the suspension/ the steering etc.)

Does anyone have any alternate ideas, products, suggestions?

Answer 1

I too am looking into this there is a several aluminum ones made. Etrailer where I got my hitch doesn't tell you all of the details up front. Having that hitch is a big problem for you if that is all your car will take look at small trailers they make

for this purpose.

Answer 2

The cargo carrier pictured seems like it might do what you want.  That 100 lbs tongue weight is related to trailers.  If you have a receiver hitch on your PT cruiser, it will accept the pictured carrier.  The hitch will support more than the 300 pounds the carrier is rated for.

The problem comes in when you put that weight behind the rear wheels.  You will change the handling of your vehicle.  The added weight will lessen the downward force your front wheels have which will reduce your traction, the PT cruiser is a front wheel drive vehicle as you are aware.

You should talk to the service manager at a Chrysler dealership and see what potential problems such a carrier might present.