Hitch Extension and Locking Pin for a 2003 Honda CR-V with Spare Tire

Question:

We are looking for a hitch extension that we can install in our hitch so that our bike rack will clear our spare tire 2003 Honda CRV. What do you recommend and what can we do to minimize any additional wobble that will occur on the bike rack.

asked by: Lori

Expert Reply:

You'll have two options, depending on your hitch size. In either case, your overall tongue weight capacity will be reduced by 50% when the extender is installed, so you'll want to verify your hitch's capacity prior to purchase and ensure that you can still install your chosen rack and actually carry bikes on it.

If your hitch is the smaller 1-1/4 inch size, you'll want to purchase Brophy's 6 inch 1-1/4 inch extender, part # HES6 in order to extend your hitch. This extender pushes the hitch pin hole for your bike rack back 6 inches, allowing most racks to clear your spare.

If you instead have a larger, 2 inch hitch, then the Advantage SportsRack Hitch Extender, part # HE6000 is a better pick. It has an integrated anti-rattle

You can select the added length by moving the internal nut retainer forward or backwards. I recommend using the inner set of hitch pin holes to provide a better ride. You'll be able to move the nut retainer with a flat head screwdriver or other similar device to push it forwards or backwards.

You can also add a lock to this hitch extender with part # HE6001 to add a little more security to your extender.

I've attached a video review of all of these kits so you can get a better idea of their specific performances and installation processes.