Does Curt Multipurpose Ball Mount Reduce Towing Capacity

Question:

We have a 2013 Toyota Highlander. Towing capacity is 5000 pounds and the tongue weight limit is 500 pounds. Our camper is a T@B tear weighing around 2300 pounds loaded and the tongue weight is around 275 pounds. We already own a Thule bike rack that fits the hitch receiver when not towing. As near as I can tell, the Curt Multipurpose Ball Mount with 2inch Receiver for Bike Racks and Cargo Carriers - 7,500 lbs Item # D210 used in place of our current ball mount would let us use the Thule bike rack while towing. Does this type of ball mount reduce towing capacity? What do we need to measure or be careful about when using this to carry bicycles while towing?

asked by: Henrietta

Expert Reply:

The Curt Multipurpose Ball Mount # D210 referenced in your question is designed for exactly what you are wanting to do. The ball mount will allow you to hook up your T@B Camper and the top 2 inch receiver will work great for your Thule Bike Rack. Unlike a lot of similar adapters, this multipurpose ball mount does not actually reduce the tongue weight or towing capacity of your trailer hitch and tow vehicle. As long as you remain under the 500 pound tongue weight limit and 5,000 pound towing capacity that you mentioned with the combined weights of the trailer and rack, you will be good to go.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this product that you can check out.

Even though your vehicle's capacity won't be reduced when using this product, it wouldn't be a bad idea to use a stabilizing strap like the Curt # 18050 with the Thule bike rack. Since you will be adding another piece to your setup, further securing the rack to your vehicle will be beneficial to reduce any movement that the multipurpose ball mount might create.

I have included a video demonstration on this product so you can see exactly how it is used.

expert reply by: Chris R