Lowering 2 Inch Trailer Hitch Receiver when Using a Motorcycle Rack
Question:
Id like to lower my receiver by 8inch for when I want to use a motorcycle rack. What product can you suggest? Ive seen 2 parts from Curt that look like they might work...replacement shank and multi-ball adjustable ball mount receiver. Am I on the right track or is there a better solution? Weight would be up to 350lbs not counting any effect from bouncing while driving. Thx.
asked by: Russ
Expert Reply:
First you need to know that the use of an adapter to extend, reduce, raise, or lower the receiver will reduce the tongue weight capacity by 50 percent. So if the motorcycle rack you have is completely supported by the trailer hitch then the combined weight of it and the bike cannot exceed the reduced tongue weight capacity.
So for example if the combined weight of the carrier and bike is 350 pounds then the hitch would have to have a tongue weight capacity of at least 700 pounds. In this scenario I would not use an adapter of any kind and invest in a ramp such as # CE26151PG to make loading the bike easier.
If the carrier you have just holds the front wheel of the bike and leaves its rear wheel on the ground (like a tow dolly) then the reduced tongue weight capacity would not be a factor. For an adapter with an 8 inch drop you can use # RM-048-8. It is rated for 400 pounds tongue weight but if the reduced hitch tongue weight capacity is lower then you have to go by the lower rating.
Products Referenced in This Question
Roadmaster High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 8" Rise/Drop - 10K GTW, 400 lbs TW
- Accessories and Parts
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Adapters
- High-Low Adapter
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 8 Inch Rise/Drop
- Roadmaster
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Adjustable Weight Distribution Shank - 8"
- Accessories and Parts
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Shanks
- 1500 lbs TW
- 15000 lbs GTW
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Round - 3 Inch Drop
- Trunnion - 2 Inch Drop
- Round - 7 Inch Rise
- Trunnion - 6 Inch Rise
- CURT
more information >
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