Necessary Ball Mount Length to Use Swagman S64664 Traveler XCS Bike Rack

Question:

How long will I need the ball mount to be. Im using a tow dolly behind a 2018 Fleetwood class a motorhome.

asked by: Mark T

Expert Reply:

As the sleeve on the bottom of the upright is 3 inches long, you'll want to choose a 'long' ball mount with the proper rise/drop, such as # C45270 so you can pull the tow dolly so the tongue is level. I've linked to our selection of ball mounts with the long shank, as well as to a help article that shows how to measure to determine the rise or drop ball mount you'll need.

expert reply by: Mike L

Brad M.

5/20/2020

Looking at: Swagman Traveler XCS - Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack for 2" Ball Mount - Towing I'm towing a 2018 Coachmen Apex Nano (22') with a 2012 Ford Expedition. I have a Weight Distribution Hitch. Am I correct in understanding I need 3" of 'space' on the receiver to mount this Bike Rack? Even if I have the space, would I be better off just carrying bikes inside the trailer (so long as I can secure them well...considering additional tongue weight)? Thank you

Chris R.

5/23/2020

You're correct that the Swagman Traveler # S64664 features a 3" sleeve, so this is the amount of space you need on the ball mount (or in your case a weight distribution shank) to secure the rack. If you decide to go this route you'll likely need a longer shank like the Reese # RP3214. If you're able to secure the bikes inside the trailer though, that honestly wouldn't be a bad way to go. Like you said, adding bikes to the tongue will certainly increase the weight at connection, thus creating the need for further adjustment on the WD system and would just be more of a hassle overall.