How Do Hitch Extenders Affect Tongue Weight Ratings

Question:

I recently purchased a 5 bike rack from Rage model - BC-8809-4AH+1EXT to go with my Draw Tite trailer hitch 75599. The bike rack came with a hitch extender, will this compromise the maximum tongue weight of the hitch?

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

We don't carry the bike rack you referenced, but if the extender installs onto the rack as a solid piece then no, your tongue weight rating would not be affected. If its just a tube that slides into your hitch and then the rack installs into that loosely you would lose 50 percent of your tongue weigh rating.

For more information on hitch extenders check out the FAQ article I attached on them.

expert reply by: Jameson C