Recommended Trailer Hitch to use Thule Bike Rack on 2017 Toyota Camry

Question:

Hi - I have another question. My Thule bike rack doesn’t fit as snugly in this hitch as it has with etrailer hitches I had on 3 previous cars. It’s rather wobbly. Makes me kinda nervous when it’s installed on my car. Is there any solution for this?

asked by: Lisa S

Helpful Expert Reply:

The hitches available for your 2017 Toyota Camry, the Curt # C12107 and Draw-Tite # 36540 are extremely similar and it would be difficult to say that one would be "better" than the other for your Thule Roadway # TH912XTR.

The most noticeable difference is that the Curt hitch will require you to use stabilizing straps # 18050 when using your bike rack in order to maintain the warranty. The Draw-Tite # 36540 does not have the same requirement so I recommend going with that option over the Curt. I've also added links to videos of both hitches being installed for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Kyle S

click to enlarge

Lisa

2/5/2018

The issue I’m seeing is how do you remove the rack from the hitch? There isn’t enough clearance between the top and bottom of where the pin is inserted to use the Thule provided tool to remove the pin. Am I supposed to use a different tool with this tight setup?

Kyle S.

2/5/2018

Since you are having an issue getting the hitch pin bolt out, what you can do is use the Ratchet with 3/4" Socket for Anti-Rattle Hitch Bolts # PT20104-38524. If you watch the video review of this part I've linked, you will be able to see it being used in the exact application you asked about.

Lisa

2/22/2018

Kyle S.

2/22/2018

The best option to reduce the amount of rattle you are experiencing while your Thule Roadway # TH912XTR is in the hitch is to use the Thule Snug Tite Hitch Lock and Anti-Rattle Device # THSTL2. This, along with the built-in anti-rattle device on your Thule Roadway, should mean you experience minimal movement when the rack is in your hitch. I've added a link to a video review of this part for you to take a look at.