Hitch question

[penskesux]

I would like to add a bike rack to my 2005 Baja select 12hw . I found a Reese hitch extension with a square receiver piggybacked on top to hold a bike rack. I think this is a great idea but I'm concerned with adding extra length to the trailer hitch. The hitch is rated at 4000lbs Gtw and 400lb tongue weight. I think the weight of my camper is 2750lb dry. I don't want to go over the max load once I add bikes and other supplies in camper. Does anyone have experience with this hitch or any suggestions?

[bankr63]

I would say that it is probably a bit risky, but get your rig weighed so that you know what the tongue weight is now.


If your trailer is near the 15% end of 10-15% tongue weight, you are already near the 400 lb tongue weight DRY; adding cargo to the trailer will increase the TW more. Add the weight of the extension, bike rack, and the bikes onto that and you are probably well over the 400 lbs rating.


There are options for A-Frame mounts that will add some to the TW; about 60% of the rack and bike weight probably, depending on where the mount attaches between the ball and axle, with the other 40% going rearward to the pup axle. Or you can go with cargo rails on the pup roof with standard roof top racks which places most of the weight directly over or behind the pup axle. DON'T consider a bumper mount for your pup unless it is welded directly to the frame itself as it will likely rip the bumper right off the frame from the leverage.


Rack on our 1007:



A-frame rack on our 19H



ETA: Search for bike rack on this sub-forum. Someone also posted a photo of a rack that attaches the front forks to a rack on the A-Frame, with the rear tires resting on the trailer roof. Another good option for a pup.

[penskesux]

Thanks so much for your input, I appreciate your great suggestions. Not sure what direction I plan to take but I have some good ideas to persue.
Thanks again
Mike

[Sundancer330]

I have one of these GenY four hole receivers, they also sell a three hole version. I use it when towing my small boat in the bottom hole, bike rack in the middle hole, and a mount for the 9.9 outboard in the top hole.
I has a weight rating of 10,000 lbs, and can be installed up or down, and its made in the USA. You can find it on Amazon.