Would Bike Rack Installed in the Top of a Curt Ball Mount # D210 Need to Be Removed for Uncoupling

Question:

I have a motorhome with a towing capacity of 5000 pounds and will be towing an open car hauler with a Miata MX-5. I thought about also mounting a bike rack on the trailer, but saw your Curt Multipurpose Ball Mount with 2inch Receiver for Bike Racks and Cargo Carriers - 7,500 lbs. My car hauler trailer uses a 2-5/16inch ball. I need to measure the height of the RV hitch to see what stinger height/ I need to keep it all level. If this Curt product meets that criteria I need to know if I will be able to unhitch the trailer without removing the bikes and rack. Also what about the rack for 2 bikes allowing for tight turns when towing the car hauler. Suggestions?

asked by: Ron

Expert Reply:

The Curt Ball Mount # D210 has a ball mount platform that will provide you with a drop of 2-1/4 inches. If you are unsure what drop you would need to tow your trailer level check out the FAQ article I attached to the right.

To unhitch your trailer you will have to remove the bike rack from the receiver opening. Even if you could get the coupler disconnected and away from the ball it would be such a headache with the limited clearance due to the bike rack that it would be easier to just remove the bike rack.

Whether or not your turning radius will be affected will be dependent largely on the clearances of your trailer and how long your bikes are. We have a ton of reviews on this product and only one said he had an issue with sharp turns. He found that removing the wheels of the bikes made it easier.

This ball mount calls for a hitch ball with a 1 inch diameter shank like the # 63847 that is a 2-5/16 inch ball. You might check to see that yours has the correct diameter shank.

expert reply by: Jameson C