Hitch Extender for More Clearance Between 2007 Saturn Vue and Bike Rack

Question:

Dumb question, but what size locking hitch pin do I buy for the smaller of the two holes on my hitch? I just installed the etrailer Hitch #e98865 on my 2007 Saturn Vue. My existing bike rake fits, but the larger of the two holes for the pin puts the rack too close to the bumper. It needs to sit further out with the smaller pin hole. What is the size of the smaller pin? I have the larger pin, which I cannot use, and I need to purchase a locking hitch pin for the smaller size.

asked by: Mary

Expert Reply:

You do not use the smaller hole. It was used for a special anti-rattle device that is no longer available.

In order to move the bike rack further from the vehicle you will need a hitch extender, # C45791. Keep in mind that the use of an adapter will reduce the tongue weight capacity of the hitch by 50 percent.

That won't be a problem for your hitch though because it has a tongue weight capacity of 350 pounds. Half of that is 175 pounds. So the combined weight of the bike racks and bikes cannot exceed the reduced capacity. Which should definitely not be a problem with that kind of capacity!

You might want to look at the Blue Ox Hitch Receiver Immobilizer II - 2" Hitches Item # BX8822, to tighten everything up and reduce the rattle.

You will need a second hitch pin though, # PC3.

expert reply by: Michael H