FAQ
Will a HitchGate fit my truck, SUV, or van?
Most Wilco hitch-mounted carriers need a 2" Class III (or higher) receiver. Fit still depends on three measurements around your hitch and bumper — not just year/make/model.
Before you buy, download our Fitment Guide (PDF) and measure R, U, and V using its diagrams. Then check the guide for your model, or email photos plus your year/make/model, wheel offset, and spare tire size to info@wilcooffroad.com. We’ll confirm the right model.
What are dimensions R, U, and V?
- U — Clear space forward of the receiver pin hole (needs enough room so the carrier shank isn’t blocked by weld plates, mufflers, etc.). Typical minimum: 4.5" unobstructed.
- R — Distance from the rear of the receiver to the rearmost bumper surface (including tow hooks / D-rings). 1.5" or less to proceed (per the Fitment Guide).
-
V — Distance from the top of the receiver to the underside of your open rear door or tailgate.
- Over 3" and under 7" — lower-profile unit.
- Over 7" — all models apply, except HitchGate X needs 7.5" and Max needs 8".
The Fitment Guide (PDF download) shows exactly where to measure each one. Measure before ordering.
Which carrier is right for me: HitchDrop, Switch, HitchGate X, or HitchSwing?
- HitchDrop — Our most affordable tire carrier. The spare drops down so you can open a drop-down tailgate. A great budget option, with more fitment limits than the swing-outs.
- Switch — Swing-out tire carrier with an adjustable wheel-mount plate, handy if you change spare sizes. Available in high-clearance and low-profile heights, plus an XL long-arm version for vans.
- HitchGate X — Our newest swing-out tire carrier, with more standard features built in. A high-clearance design for trucks and SUVs with room under the open gate (about 7.5" of Dim V).
- HitchSwing — Swing-away carrier for anything that mounts in a 2" receiver, like a bike rack or cargo basket. Pull the pin and swing your cargo out of the way to open the back. The HitchSwing Lite is reversible, so it can open to either side.
Quick rule of thumb: Need the spare to drop for a drop-down tailgate? Start with HitchDrop. Need the spare to swing fully out of the way? Choose Switch or HitchGate X based on your Dim V. Carrying a bike rack or cargo basket instead of a spare? Choose HitchSwing. The Fitment Guide lists the measurements for each.
High-clearance vs low-profile — which should I get?
Choose based on Dim V (space under the open gate/door):
| Style | Dim V (Fitment Guide) | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Lower-profile / Drop | Over 3" and under 7" | SUVs, vans, recessed hitch setups, shorter openings |
| High-clearance / most models | Over 7" | Full-size trucks / tall rear openings |
| HitchGate X | 7.5" | Trucks and SUVs needing X clearance |
| Max | 8" | Max-series setups |
Buying a high-clearance model when you only have about 3" of Dim V is a common reason people exchange. Measure first using the Fitment Guide.
Will the carrier clear my tailgate / rear doors?
- Drop: Designed so the spare can lower for drop-down gates. Clearance still depends on spare diameter and how far the gate drops — send us gate style + spare size if you’re unsure.
- Switch / HitchGate X: Swing the spare clear of the bed or doors. XL long-arm models are aimed at vans (ProMaster / Transit / Sprinter-style access), not as the first pick for most pickups.
Can I use a hitch extender with a Wilco tire carrier?
No. Do not use a hitch extender with any Wilco swing-out or drop carrier (HitchDrop, Switch, HitchGate X, HitchSwing, etc.). Extenders are only for cargo baskets or bike racks.
If your hitch is recessed, measure R / U / V and ask us which low-profile or Drop option fits — don’t stack an extender.
Do I need a spacer for my spare wheel?
Often no, for common light-truck sizes — but backspacing and diameter matter. If your spare is unusual (deep dish, oversized, or a special mount like some GX460 setups), send wheel/tire specs and photos before ordering.
Will XL fit my pickup?
Usually no as the first recommendation. XL long-arm carriers are built for van rear-door swing. For full-size pickups we typically recommend Switch HC or HitchGate X instead. Contact us with your year/make/model if you have a specialty build.
What about the bed-rail / in-bed tire carrier?
The spare stands on the bed floor. The center of the spare needs to fall within about a 7" vertical window centered on the bed rail. Wheel wells are the tight spot; the bulkhead behind the cab usually has the most room. Many setups max around 35" tires — a Gladiator with a shell and 37" spare typically does not fit. Use the bed-rail install guide, and plan on your own cable lock through the eyelets if you want a lock.
Shipping, lead time & buying
How fast do orders ship?
Most in-stock products ship quickly — often the same business day when ordered during weekday hours. Lead time can vary by SKU; check the product page or email us if you need a hard date.
Do you ship to Canada?
Yes. Checkout sometimes blocks Canadian addresses — if that happens, call 877-945-2684 or email info@wilcooffroad.com with your full address and postal code. We’ll place the order manually and quote freight. Canadian orders may be charged import duties and taxes by the carrier or customs at delivery. Wilco does not collect those fees and can’t quote them in advance. We ship with the required export paperwork.
Where are Wilco products made?
Wilco builds in the USA with in-house steel fabrication and long-running product lines, so replacement parts stay available for years.
Install & everyday use
How hard is install?
Most hitch carriers install with common hand tools — no welding. You’ll need a torque wrench. WedgeLock and pivot torque is 60 lb·ft. A long extension (about 10") and a 3/4" or 19mm socket are commonly used. Install videos are linked on product pages.
Do not drill extra holes for a safety pin — that can void warranty and hurt WedgeLock engagement.
Can I still tow with a HitchGate installed?
Many hitch carriers leave a usable receiver path for light towing or a rack — check the specific product page. Never exceed your vehicle’s hitch rating. Do not put a hitch extender between the vehicle and a Wilco tire carrier.
Returns, parts & support (good to know before you buy)
What’s your return policy?
New items can be returned within 30 business days of delivery with an RGA number. Customer pays return shipping. Restocking fees:
| Condition | Restock fee |
|---|---|
| Unopened | 10% |
| Installed | 15% |
| Installed and used | 35% |
Sale / closeout / scratch-and-dent items are typically non-refundable. Full details: Warranty & Return Policy.
Do you offer a military or first-responder discount?
Yes — 15% for military and first responders. Verify through ID.me on the website at checkout (ID.me verification is being added to the site).
Are replacement parts available?
Yes — bushings, pins, hardware kits, and more: Replacement Parts.
Who do I contact for fitment help?
Email info@wilcooffroad.com or call 877-945-2684 (weekday support hours on the site). Include year/make/model, R/U/V measurements, and a few photos of the hitch area.
Still unsure?
Start with the Fitment Guide (PDF download). If you still have questions, send us:
- Year / make / model
- Photos of the hitch and bumper (side + looking into the receiver)
- Dimensions R, U, V
- Spare tire size and wheel backspacing if known
We’ll tell you which product to buy — before you spend a dime.