Bike Rack for a Camper on a 1982 Ford F-250

Question:

1991 Lance camper on 1982 Ford F-250. Your Swagman s63400 tilting rack looked like a possible solution on the back of my rig. It looks like it would tilt enough to allow access to the rear door of the camper. There is also a spare tire on the front of the truck for a possible bike rack, The spare is offset to one side. I need the support arms to swivel out of the way when no bikes are mounted and only need to carry two bikes max. Suggestions? Thanks!

asked by: Gary T

Expert Reply:

You'll need to take a few measurements prior to purchasing a rack to ensure a good fit.

First, you'll want to measure from the center of the hitch pin hole to the furthest point away of either the tailgate or camper, whichever is further. Your bike rack will need to be able to clear this distance to be able to equip to the vehicle.

Because you have a camper, I recommend picking an extender with a step that will be far enough away to use to get into the camper. This has the added benefit of pushing the bike rack a little further out from the vehicle, making the tilt-away feature of the rack provide a little more clearance.

Our longest available step extender is the Brophy 19 inch extender, part #ST12, this includes a 6-1/2 inch wide by 17 inch long platform. With the platform removed, you have an available 12-1/2 inch extension.

Our shortest step option is the MaxxTow 13-1/2 inch Extender, part # MT70069. This extender's platform is 7 inches by 14 inches, giving you a 6-1/2 inch extension.

Using an extender will reduce your overall hitch capacity and tongue weight capacity by 50%, so be sure to verify your capabilities with your owner's manual.

For the rack itself, the Swagman Titan 2 bike rack, part # S63400 is a great, economical choice. Given that it extends 11-1/4 inches away from the hitch when using its 2 inch shank, you may not need a hitch extender, though using one will make entering the camper easier, and let the camper's door open further. The Swagman Titan does include an integrated bike rack, but can be switch to the locking anti-rattle # S64029.

If you have any aggressive, step through or children's bikes you plan on carrying, you'll likely need an adapter bar, part # 64005 to help them ride level.

You won't be able to keep the bikes mounted to the rack while it's tilted away, so a cable lock like part # e98891 can be used in the integrated cable lock for added protection at night time.

I've included video reviews of these parts so you can get a better idea of how they function and make the best choice for your adventures.