1. Introduction
The CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier provides a simple and effective solution for expanding your vehicle's storage capacity. Designed for durability and ease of use, this hitch-mounted carrier allows you to transport extra gear, luggage, or other items securely, freeing up space inside your vehicle. Its robust steel construction and versatile hitch compatibility make it an ideal accessory for road trips, camping, or any occasion requiring additional cargo space.
2. Safety Information
- Maximum Load Capacity: Do not exceed the stated 500 lbs (226.8 kg) load capacity of this cargo carrier. Always check your vehicle's hitch receiver capacity and never exceed the lower of the two ratings.
- Weight Distribution: Distribute cargo weight evenly across the carrier platform. Place heavier items in the center and secure all items to prevent shifting during transit.
- Secure All Cargo: Always use appropriate cargo nets, bungee cords, or ratchet straps to firmly secure all items to the carrier. The 6-inch high sides are designed to assist in fastening cargo.
- Visibility: Ensure that the cargo carrier and its contents do not obstruct your vehicle's taillights, brake lights, turn signals, or license plate. The carrier includes integrated reflectors for enhanced visibility.
- Clearance: Be aware of the increased length of your vehicle when the cargo carrier is installed, especially when backing up, parking, or maneuvering in tight spaces.
- Regular Inspection: Before each use, inspect the cargo carrier, hitch connection, and all fasteners for any signs of wear, damage, or looseness. Tighten any loose bolts immediately.
3. What's in the Box
The CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier package typically includes the following components:
- Basket Cargo Carrier (main platform sections)
- Hitch Shank with 1-1/4 inch and 2 inch adapter sleeve
- Mounting Hardware (bolts, nuts, washers, pins)
- Integrated Reflectors
4. Assembly Instructions
Follow these steps to assemble your CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier. It is recommended to loosely attach all bolts during initial assembly and fully tighten them only after all components are in place.
- Attach Hitch Shank to Basket Sections: Connect the hitch shank to the main basket platform sections. Ensure the bottom basket part is oriented correctly; if there is a small lip on one side, it should face downward to ensure proper alignment of all holes. The tube must be flush with the top of the plate for correct assembly.
- Secure T-Shaped Brackets: Attach the T-shaped brackets to the appropriate points on the basket, ensuring the hitch shank is positioned correctly for vehicle attachment.
- Install V-Shaped Brackets: Fasten the V-shaped support brackets to the basket sections.
- Connect Top Rail Bars: Slide the top rail bars into the female openings on the T-shaped pieces and align with the bottom basket.
- Final Tightening: Once all components are loosely assembled and aligned, proceed to fully tighten all bolts and nuts securely.
Figure 1: Components of the CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier during assembly.
Assembly Demonstration Video
Video 1: Demonstration of hitch cargo carrier assembly.
5. Installation
To install the assembled cargo carrier onto your vehicle:
- Insert the hitch shank into your vehicle's 1-1/4 inch or 2 inch hitch receiver. The CURT 18145 includes an adapter sleeve to fit both sizes.
- Align the pinholes on the hitch shank with those on your vehicle's receiver.
- Insert the hitch pin through the aligned holes and secure it with the provided clip or locking mechanism.
Figure 2: CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier installed on a vehicle.
Figure 3: Detail of the adapter sleeve for hitch receiver compatibility.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Loading Cargo
When loading the cargo carrier, ensure that the total weight does not exceed 500 lbs. Distribute the weight as evenly as possible, placing heavier items towards the center of the carrier and closer to the vehicle. This helps maintain vehicle stability and prevents excessive stress on the hitch.
Figure 4: Proper loading of the cargo carrier.
6.2. Securing Cargo
Always use appropriate tie-downs to secure your cargo. The 6-inch high sides of the basket provide convenient points for attaching cargo nets, bungee cords, or ratchet straps. Ensure all items are tightly secured and cannot shift, fall off, or interfere with vehicle operation or visibility.
Figure 5: Cargo secured with a net for safe transport.
Figure 6: Close-up of integrated reflector and tie-down points.
Cargo Loading Tips Video
Video 2: Official CURT video providing three quick tips for effectively loading and securing items on a cargo carrier.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the cargo carrier with mild soap and water to remove dirt, road grime, and salt. The tubular base design facilitates easy cleaning.
- Rust Prevention: The carrier features an E-coat and carbide black powder coat finish for rust, scratch, and UV damage resistance. Inspect the finish periodically for any chips or damage and touch up as needed to prevent rust.
- Fastener Check: Periodically check all bolts, nuts, and pins to ensure they remain tight and secure. Retighten as necessary.
8. Troubleshooting
8.1. Assembly Issues: Misaligned Holes
If you encounter difficulty aligning holes during assembly, particularly when attaching the main basket sections or the hitch shank, consider the following:
- Component Orientation: Ensure that the bottom basket part is correctly oriented. Some users have noted that a small, almost indiscernible lip on one side of this piece must face downward. Incorrect orientation can cause slight misalignment.
- Loose Fasteners: Make sure all bolts are only loosely inserted during the initial assembly steps. This allows for minor adjustments and flexibility to align all holes before final tightening. Once all bolts are in place, then proceed to tighten them fully.
- Gentle Persuasion: In some cases, minor adjustments or gentle pressure may be needed to align holes. Avoid excessive force that could damage components.
9. Specifications
- Model: 18145
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 48 x 20 x 6 inches (basket interior)
- Load Capacity: 500 Pounds
- Material: Heavy-duty tubular steel
- Finish: E-coat and Carbide Black Powder Coat
- Mounting Type: Hitch-mounted (fits 1-1/4 inch or 2 inch receiver tubes with adapter)
- Item Weight: 27.5 pounds
Figure 7: Approximate dimensions of the CURT 18145 Basket Hitch Cargo Carrier.
10. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, product registration, or technical support, please visit the official CURT Manufacturing website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
