Can You Add Bolt-On Receivers To A Trailer Hitch To Carry Multiple Items

Question:

Im considering the 13703 hitch for the back of my Forest River Microlite travel trailer. Can I add bolt on receivers to this? I have two thing Id like to put back there. A loaded bike rack 140 lbs and a small truck box 50 lbs for my black tank supplies. So, instead of a middle receiver all the time, Id like to be able to add two on either side to hold the described items. Is this possible?

asked by: Glen W

Expert Reply:

It would be physically possible to attach on bolt-on receivers, but the Curt Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs # 13703 hasn't been tested to hold weight in the manner that you're planning on using it for so you could end up overloading or overstressing the hitch and can end up having it fail.

When you add weight to the trailer hitch the crossmember will flex in a way to equally distribute the weight, adding multiple points of stress can throw off its ability to distribute the weight and cause a failure. You'd also likely run into clearance issues between the cargo box and bike rack.

Personally, I would not go this route and would instead look to alternate methods to carry the cargo, like a roof rack cargo basket for the tow vehicle. You'll also want to check the ratings of your bike rack to ensure that it's rated for use on travel trailer's otherwise you could be shortening the life of the bike rack as well. If you could provide me with the year/make/model of your vehicle I'd be happy to explore other solutions for you.

expert reply by: Kevin C