Do I need a hitch for cargo carrier

[Happydady]

I've never towed/hauled anything before so I don't know much about it.
Next month I am taking 6 people + luggages to the airport (about 2hr of driving). So I am thinking why don't I get a cargo carrier (something like this one for the future use. My question is do I need to get a trailer hitch to install the carrier (I think I do but I just want to make sure). If I do need, where can I get after market one without losing a hand or leg? Can I get the one sold at U-haul? I've heard that people complain their installation.

Can I buy it online and install myself?
Can I only do the hardware installation with no wire because I only want to use with the cargo carrier only? I am not planning to tow a boat or anything like that.

My PL is 08 with full size spair tire.

[macphanatic]

Yes, it requires a hitch. Search the forums as hitch installation has been discussed several times. If you are mechanically inclined, it is an easy installation.

[Medic721]

for the one you listed you would need a hitch but there are rooftop carrier options available as well.

-Mike.

[Happydady]

Ordered the Curt hitch ($152.95) + cargo carrier ($99) + wiring harness (24.95) yesterday at etrailer for total of $277.85. Today found out there was a coupon code 5% off. Emailed CSR, 5 min later got email said I would get credit back. Very good customer service

[Happydady]

Got it yesterday and will install this weekend. Have a question though.

How do I know how much torque apply when tighten the bols using the torque wrench? Let's say 70ft-lbs.

Does impact wrench let you know how much torque you use? I just bought one few days ago for tires rotating but haven't opened the box yet.

I don't want under or over tighten the bolts.

[RSQ Pilot]

Originally posted by Happydady
Got it yesterday and will install this weekend. Have a question though.

How do I know how much torque apply when tighten the bols using the torque wrench? Let's say 70ft-lbs.

Does impact wrench let you know how much torque you use? I just bought one few days ago for tires rotating but haven't opened the box yet.

I don't want under or over tighten the bolts.

No, an impact wrench will not set the torque, you need a torque wrench either in metric [kg-m] or sae [ft-lbs] or use a conversion chart from one to the other.

As a side note, this is what commonly causes heartaches at the roadside. Some tire rotation tech uses 150 PSI in his impact wrench to re install your tires and you get stuck on the roadside with a dumb old lug wrench that can't break the lug nuts free when you need to.