Bike Rack Similar to Swagman XTC With Less Play

Question:

Sales Tech. I have the swagman bike rack w/straps 64670. Ive had a heck of a time with two difficulties. The first, my 2007 chevy equinoxes trailer hitch is rusty. I took a wire brush to smooth out the best I can. I am a retired female customer who had a hell of a time getting the entire device to fit easily to my car like your videos. I used wd40 and I finally decided to try regular vasoline. The vasoline helped, but I continue to struggle getting the product on and off. Any other helpful suggestions would be appreciated? My second problem is ....after I have the complete unit attached to the car, I have a lot of play when you move the top portion which is the ratchet bar. Is it suppose to have this wiggle or did I put a bolt in the wrong place? There are 2 short bolts that I placed underneath the bottom of the ratchet bar. Was that the correct place? Your help is needed. Thank you, Linda Kadis

asked by: Linda K

Expert Reply:

That's pretty unusual for the rack to not want to easily install in the hitch opening. In normal circumstances it should slid it with ease. Your hitch must really have some rust still in it. You might take it somewhere to have it cleaned out better. It could require some sanding.

The rack does have a bit of movement in it. What you described sounds normal for the design of the rack. There are more expensive racks that have less play, but the Hollywood Racks # HR200Z is the most stable rack in that price range and is very similar to the # S64670.

Check out the test course video to see more info on that.

expert reply by: Jameson C