How To Fix Stripped Threads On the Hitch Pin Hole In the Shank for the Reese Eclipse 4 Bike Rack

Question:

I just assembled and installed the Reese 4 bike rack #63124. I cant get the hitch pin/bolt to tighten into the frame. Looks like the threads inside the rack might be damaged. I was able to get it in enough to attach the cotter pin. Is it safe enough to use without the bolt being tightened? I need it this weekend so dont have time to order replacement parts. Would it be safe to retap the hole in the bike rack? If so, do you know the size of the bolt and what size tap it would need? Thanks!

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

If you have the hitch pin for the Reese Eclipse 4 Bike Rack part # 63124 engaged enough so that the cotter pin can be inserted into the other side, then this will be sufficient in order to hold the shank inside of the receiver tube. That said, the bike rack may not be as stable as it would be with full thread engagement so that is something to keep in mind. I cannot really recommend that you drill and tap the weld nut inside the shank, but you could just drill this out with a 5/8" drill bit and then just use the Hitch Pin and Clip part # C21510 with the Gen-Y Anti-Rattle Clamp part # GY88XR.

expert reply by: Conner L