How to Add Ground Clearance to Allow 2004 Scion xB to Be Used with Hitch Rack  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The hitch made for your 2004 Scion xB is a light-duty Class I type, such as Curt # C11487. The type of item you're looking for, a hitch adapter that gives you a height increase for better ground clearance at your bike wheels, does exist for larger 2-inch hitches. Such an item is # MPG544, as an example.

The problem is that an equivalent item is not made for your light-duty 1-1/4-inch hitch. The best option I can offer you is the Brophy hitch adapter # HT5R . This will give you a 2 inch receiver for your bike rack so you'll need the factory adapter. We don't recommend using any other adapter in this case as it compromises the integrity of the hold and the adapter already reduces your tongue weight ability for your bike rack by 50%. So your 200-lb-rated Class I hitch will have only a 100-lb tongue weight capacity when fitted with the adapters referenced above. This means that the total combined weight of your bike rack and bikes cannot exceed 100-lbs.

Another option is to use a different bike rack that provides better ground clearance. One Class I-compatible rack I often recommend is the Swagman XC # S64650. The rack is moderate in cost, lightweight at only about 25 lbs, it fits both hitch sizes and it has 4-inches of rise in the shank for better ground clearance. It is approved for both RV and car use. It is possible based on the current bike rack being used that this rack would offer enough clearance without an adapter.

expert reply by: Adam R

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