Installing Thule OutWay # TH45JV on 2011 Chevy Equinox

Question:

A bit perplexed re: the installation of the Thule OutWay TH45JV bike carrier. The Thule tips for my vehicle, 2011 Chevy Equinox, recommends: TIP #112 Set lower clip/hooks into frame holes in chassis behind bumper. OK. I have been under the car several times and have yet to locate the frame holes referenced. Do you have any clues, pics or any kind of help for me? If not I will simply hook up to the bottom of the rear hatch as most other installations go. That seems to work fine. Thanks

asked by: Gary D

Helpful Expert Reply:

According to my Thule representative, not all Equinox models will have the holes in the frame members. Some vehicles will have holes in the backside of the bumper beam that can be used as attachment points. If those aren't present, Thule tells me that it's perfectly acceptable to use the bottom of the rear hatch as you propose.

If you'll be transporting women's bikes or bikes with sharply-angled top tubes, you might also consider a frame adapter bar like part # 64005. The bar spans the distance between the handlebar gooseneck and the seat post, which provides a secondary attachment point for the bike rack. This allows the bike to be carried level, which maximizes ground clearance.

expert reply by: Mike L