Replacement Hitch Pin Installation Problem for My XC2 # S64650 Bike Rack

Question:

Hi, I have a Swagman XC2 64650 2 and the hitch pin that comes with it fits just fine. When I wanted to replace that hitch pin with S64029, I noticed that I could no longer screw it by hand and use a wrench to tight it up. As soon as I make a few turns it seems like it is stuck and I hesitate to use a wrench to force it. Should I force it with a wrench or is this the wrong part for my bike rack? Thanks.

asked by: Gaston

Expert Reply:

I have ran into this situation a couple of times. The hitch pin, # S64029, is the correct hitch pin for the Swagman XC, # S64650, bike rack. Sometimes manufacturing tolerances are not quite the same on the replacement hitch pin and you will need to use a wrench to slowly thread the hitch pin in and out a few times to get the threads to match up perfectly.

Start by applying some oil, then threading the new hitch pin in until you feel resistance. Back the hitch pin out a bit and thread in again until resistance is felt. Repeat this process until the pin is threaded fully into the receiver and bike rack shank.

If at any point you run into a spot that the hitch pin will not thread past, stop, further tightening could damage your bike rack shank. You would then need to contact customer service at 1-800-298-8924, to determine how to proceed.

expert reply by: Robert G