Adjustable angle hitch-mounted load carrier for oversized items
View Patent ↗An adjustable angle hitch-mounted load carrier for oversized items enables transportation of large or elongated items on a vehicle without a trailer or separate roof rack system. The load carrier features a hitch attachment member, an angular adjustment mechanism, a pivotally connected main support arm, and a cargo rack portion. The adjustable angle hitch-mounted load carrier offers improved flexibility and convenience by allowing users to easily adjust the angle of the main support arm for loading and unloading oversized items.
1 . A load carrier system for a hitch receiver of a vehicle, comprising:
a hitch attachment member that attaches to the hitch receiver;
an adjustment mechanism connected to the hitch attachment member, the adjustment mechanism having a lower locking position and a stowed locking position;
a main support arm pivotally connected to the hitch attachment member through the adjustment mechanism, wherein the main support arm is selectively adjustable between the lowered position and the stowed position through the adjustment mechanism; and
a cargo rack portion connected to the main support arm opposite the adjustment mechanism, wherein the cargo rack portion is configured to support and secure an oversized load above the vehicle in the stowed position, the cargo rack portion having:
a elongated center support member extending from a first end to a second end;
a first lateral support member secured to the first end and extending perpendicular to a length of the elongated center support member; and
a second lateral support member secured to the second end and extending perpendicular to the length of the elongated center support member.
2 . The system of claim 1 , wherein the adjustment mechanism can be selectively fastened in a range of angular positions between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the hitch attachment portion.
3 . The system of claim 1 , further comprising padding or cushioning material affixed to the cargo rack portion to protect loads during transport.