Trouble Tightening Hitch Pin With Saris Bike Rack On 2006 Subaru Outback Wagon With Factory Hitch

Question:

I have 2006 Subaru Outback with a factory hitch. I tried attaching a Sarin bike rack, but there is a piece of metal that interferes with the hex part of the bolt so that I cannot turn it to tighten. Is there a special bolt needed for a subaru factory hitch?

asked by: Terry L

Expert Reply:

It sounds like the problem might be the safety chain loop on the factory hitch on your 2006 Subaru Outback Wagon. Since the hitch pin bolts for the Saris Bike Racks are specifically designed for the Saris racks, the only option is to use the boot designed for the bike rack.

If you have a long enough socket and extension, using a ratchet may be a little easier to use. The only other way to effectively tighten the bolt is to use an open end wrench on the bolt.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L