Is the Required Curt Stabilizing Strap Included with Hitch # 11469 for a 2010 Toyota Prius

Question:

Would you please explain the quote below from the preceeding webpage? Can you be specific as to what this means, how they should be used / attached? Are they supplied? What straps do you recommend? All non-trailer loads bike racks, cargo carriers, etc must be supported by stabilizing straps per Curt warranty requirements

asked by: Terry F

Expert Reply:

The Curt Stabilizing Strap, part # 18050, is not included with their hitches. It attaches to the bike rack then to the vehicle to keep the forces exerted on the bike rack and hitch when hitting bumps from damaging the hitch. On passenger cars this can be attached to the edge of the trunk lid that meets rear windshield or on SUVs, you can attach to the top edge of the hatch.

The use of a strap is necessary for Curt warranty requirements. You can also use bungee cords. I would recommend an assortment. You could start with 4-6 each of the # EM06655 18" and # EM06656 24", and 2-3 each of the lengths such as: # EM06658 36" and # EM06668 42". Instead of bungees you could use a ratchet strap like # EM34416.

expert reply by: Patrick B