97 crv towing capacity

Hi, I just had a 1 1/4" hitch installed on my 97 CRV. My main purpose for having the hitch installed was so I can use a Hitch-Haul (by mater-built), which is a steel platform that is about 20" x 60" x 2" high to carry gear for camping. The weight limitations of this platform is 500 lbs. At this point I'm not sure if I should be concerned with the towing capacity of my CRV or the passenger weight limitations since I'm not really towing anything, but carrying something outside the car body. Can anyone offer any advice as to what my concerns should be, or tell me the towing capacity for this vehicle? Thanks ahead for any reply.

Jerry

If I remember, the towing capacity is 1500, but don't go by my bad memory. If you have the car, it should be in your manual.

Thanks, I was able to locate the manual. The towing capacity is 1000lbs