Can I Use a 18 Inch Hitch Extender with a 2016 Ford F-150 and a Swagman XTC2 Bike Rack

Question:

I have a 2016 Ford F150 and Swagman XTC2 bike rack for 2 Trek bikes. Looking for 18inch hitch extender. Believe the Brophy 18inch ST18 with 7683 lock is my best option. Any feedback?

asked by: BD

Expert Reply:

A hitch extender, like the Bropy Hitch Extender for 2" Trailer Hitches # ST18, can allow you to move the hitch point 18 inches from the your OEM trailer hitch on your 2016 Ford F-150. However, the drawback of using a hitch extender is it will cut your hitches over all capacity by one-third. You will have to calculate the weight of both the Swagman XTC-2 2-Bike Platform Rack, # S64670, and the weight of your bikes to find your total tongue weight.

As an example, if your rack weighs 35 lbs and your two bikes weigh together 70 lbs(limited to 35 lbs per bike for the Swagman rack), then your total weight is 105 lbs. If your trailer hitch's tongue weight limit is 500 lbs and you use the extender, then the actual weight limit is now 250 lbs.

The Locking Hitch Pin # e98880 can be used with the Reese Extender.

This would be with in the limit, but the extra length would be more apt to bounce when in traval and put stress on your rack, bikes and hitch. If you decide to use an extender adapter, I recommend also using a stablizing strap, # 18050, to help secure the rack when your are in travel.