How to Correct Sagging Class I Hitch and Bike Rack on 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Trailer hitch makers generally produce hitches that are designed to more or less match the weight capacity of the frame of the vehicles for which the hitch is intended.

While it might be possible to mount a very high capacity hitch to a small light-duty vehicle doing so would not really serve any purpose or provide any benefit since the vehicle capacity will remain what it is despite the installation of the higher-rated hitch. It is a case of the weakest link in the chain determining overall capacity.

Some cars can be fitted with more than one size/class of hitch, while others will be able to use only one. As an example, a 2016 Subaru Outback can be fitted with either a 1-1/4-inch Class II hitch or with a 2-inch Class III hitch because its frame is strong enough to handle the load from the higher hitch class.. Your 2006 Infiniti G35 Coupe, on the other hand, can only be fitted with one light-duty 1-1/4-inch Class I hitch, Curt # C11483.

Do note that Curt's warranty policy requires for this hitch that a support strap # 18050 be used for any non-trailer loads such as a bike rack. Failure to do so voids the warranty.

If you have this Curt hitch on the G35 and the receiver tube or any other part of the hitch shows signs of stress - cracks in the powder-coat finish or what is clearly bent steel - then it should be replaced and the new hitch supported with this or a similar strap.

Also please note that all Class I hitches can handle the weight load of only 2 bikes, regardless of the capacity of the bike rack itself. For example, the Thule Hitching Post Pro bike rack # TH934XTR will fit in Class I, Class II and Class III hitches, but even though the rack holds up to 4 bikes, only two can be loaded when used in a Class I hitch. I linked all 2-bike Class I bike racks.

expert reply by: Adam R

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