Compatibility Of Swing Away Hitch Bike Rack With Cargo Basket That Has Extender

Question:

Hi, Our new CamperVan is Mercedes Sprinter based with a rear mounted spare tire carrier which is offset from center to the left if you are facing the rear of the vehicle. Wed like to be able to carry 3 bikes on the back along with a cargo basket. In order to still get to the rear doors, were thinking we need a swing arm or extending basket like the Lets Go Aero. Unfortunately, the Lets go Aero bike rack with extending basket combination only allows two bikes. Can you mount a Curt Dual 2inch Receiver Tube Adapter, 8inch Extension to a swing arm then mount the basket and bike rack to the Curt? The advantage of the Curt is that it would also clear the spare tire. Thanks in advance for your help!

asked by: Michael V

Expert Reply:

The Curt Dual 2" Receiver Tube Adapter, 8" Extension # D-192 will reduce your trailer hitch receivers tongue weight capacity by 50%. The swing away adapters like # 8890313 will not work prior to the adapter based on design. So you will need to make sure you have the clearance for the adapter height.

The 48x32 Reese Solo Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - Steel - 400 lbs # PS1040100 or similar will give you the 12 inches of clearance from the hitch pin hole.

For your bike carrier, I recommend the Yakima FullSwing 4 Bike Rack - 2" Hitches - Swinging # Y02465 because of its lightweight design. This will be the best swing away rack to help you stay within the tongue weight range of your hitch and the adapter.

expert reply by: Jason S