I am a new LR3 owner and wondering if a Hitch Haul typecargo carrier is a good choice for Off-Roading? These are the cargo "trays" that slide into the tow hitch reciever. Ifound them useful on other trucks hauling fuel / water, fish and game. However, I never drove my previous vehicles in the extreme off-road conditions (two feet of water, or over large rocks). The manual lists the max. tounge weightat 330lbs. This should be plenty for what Iintend. Any thoughts?

 

They are not worth a darn off road, tend to bottom out and the bouncing will tear up the tray much less what is on it. I would suggest you get a roof rack if you have that much to haul.

 

the way that hangs down with the reese attachment is going to screw up your deproach angle and you will prob tear it up they are fairly chinsy. go with a roof rack even a thule and you can mount some stuff on it or a full on rack. also with that back rack loaded you probably wont be able drop down the tail gait

 

I have used one it was on my truck when I found some off roading but it wasnt by choice and I wouldnt recomend it. The rack will drag going up hills and going down. It is fine if you arent going up hills and you really need it.

 

BUT what about the weight limit? My owner’s manual says the max roof load is 160-180lbs; substantially less than the trailer hitch. What is the limiting factor on the roof load? On-road stability?, off-road stability?, the strength of the pillars?, Lawyers?
Thanks, Dan

 

It is not so much the limiting factor as it is how top heavy the truck will become, being very unstable off road.