Standard Hitch Cargo Box (Black)

Using the StowAway Carrier

1. For optimal weight distribution, it's best to load the StowAway Carrier with lighter, bulkier items. This way you can save the denser, heavier items for inside your vehicle. Regardless of the gear, always distribute the weight evenly across the bottom of the box.
2. In order to avoid latch or taillight interference, do not pack items too closely to the StowAway latch or taillights.
3. The StowAway cargo box is designed to prevent water from penetrating the interior of the box. The Standard box uses a gasket to deter water, while the MAX box uses a channel and weep holes to channel water outside and away from your gear. In order to ensure proper water drainage, be sure to keep the weep holes clear of debris. While these water prevention systems work effectively under most conditions, water or dust may penetrate the box. There is also the possibility that condensation will accumulate in the box under certain humid conditions. While these instances are rare, we suggest you pack your items accordingly.
4. A hitch lock will secure the StowAway Carrier to your hitch. Hitch locks are available through StowAway2.com or through automotive or rack stores. We highly recommend purchasing and using a hitch lock.
5. All StowAway Cargo Carriers come with a lit license plate bracket for mounting your rear license plate onto the carrier. Moving your license plate to the StowAway may not be necessary if your plate is clearly visible.
6. The SwingAway frame is equipped with a latch, as well as a primary and secondary safety. To close the frame, swing it closed until the latch engages, then use the pins provided to lock the two safeties into place. To open the frame, remove both safeties and pull up on the orange plunger pin.
7. By inserting the safety pin into the hole at the pivot point, the SwingAway frame can be locked at a 90º angle from your car, truck, or SUV. Care should be taken when swinging the cargo box out towards traffic or using it on an incline. The cargo box should be loaded while the frame is in the closed position.
8. The StowAway is equipped with a locking latch and security features. Nevertheless, a determined thief could potentially access the box's contents by compromising these components. Exercise care if transporting valuables in the StowAway.
9. The lights are designed to provide taillight, brake light, and turn signal functionality. The lights on every cargo box are tested at the factory before shipping. If the lights do not appear to be functioning properly, please try the following steps:
• Test the unit on another vehicle, as improper vehicle wiring can be the source of carrier lighting problems.
• In order to ensure that each light is fully tightened and free of corrosion, check the wire connector plugs at each taillight and at the vehicle plug. Spray WD-40 onto all connectors if you're not sure.
• Consult your vehicle owner's manual to be certain that the terminals on the vehicle plug match the functions of those on the StowAway.

Caring for your StowAway Carrier

1. The StowAway is equipped with a drain plug for ease of cleaning. The exterior surface of the cargo box may get dull or dirty and can be washed with dish soap, water, and a wash mitt to get into the texture. Trim Shine Plastic Protectant helps restore luster to the black StowAway boxes. You can generally find it through an auto parts or automotive accessories store.
2. In order to remove road grit or salt from the StowAway frame, we recommend washing, rinsing, and drying it after each use. Any sign of rust should be sprayed with rust remover or a rust preventative at once. Articulating and mobile frame components (the pivot bolt, plunger pins, and safeties) should be kept lubricated at all times. Unless the frame is rinsed, dried, and lubricated after each use, road salt will cause the frame to rust.
3. Always keep the carrier's lid latched and locked when storing the StowAway cargo box.

Precautions for the StowAway Carrier

• EXHAUST WARNING – Hot exhaust directed at or below the StowAway box could melt or damage the box and its contents. For vehicles with an exhaust that points straight back, we recommend that the exhaust be directed away from your cargo carrier. You can either use an exhaust pipe tip for diversion, or a StowAway Exhaust Shield for deflection. StowAway exhaust shields are available for both the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle. Exhaust shields are not necessary on vehicles with tail pipes that point the exhaust directly down or to the side.
• The StowAway Carrier is not for off-road use.
• StowAway models designed for a 2" hitch receiver should be used with a Class 3 or 4, 2" receiver hitch. StowAway models designed for a 1.25" hitch receiver should be used with a Class 2, 1.25" receiver hitch. We do not recommend using a 1.25" to 2" hitch converter with the StowAway carrier under any conditions. A 7" hitch extender can be used with Class 3 or 4 hitches rated for more than 500 lbs tongue weight. Under no circumstances should the receiver hitch tongue weight, vehicle tongue weight, or the gross vehicle weight be exceeded.