Can Fulton Trailer Tongue Hinge Kit # FHDPB230101 be Used to Make a Swinging Bike Rack

Question:

Can I use this on a mountain bike rack to act as a hinge point to allow rear tailgate access on my Jeep? I know there are $300 swing-arms for this, but wanted to use this instead if possible. Total weight when pivoting would be 100 lbs Thanks for your time

asked by: Tom J

Expert Reply:

I do not recommend using the Fulton Fold-Away Coupler Hinge Kit # FHDPB230101 to create a swing away bike rack. The first issue is that the opening size on the hinge is too tall which even if you used spacers would still introduce too many points of potential failure. And the second issue is the bike rack would have to have a really, really long shank for the rack to swing off to the side far enough to open the rear door on your Jeep.

Like you said there are products that are ideal for this including the Yakima BackSwing # Y02483 though it's on the expensive side.

Another possible option that is slightly less money is the SportRack Ridge Swing # SR2415. I have linked videos on all 3 parts for you.

expert reply by: Michael H