How To Add An Anti-Rattle Device On the Curt Hitch for a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Question:

I have a bike rack for a 2-inch receiver and looking at adding the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2inch to my 2006 Toyota highlander hybrid. The rack swayed on our last vehicle a lot and looking for an anti-rattle hitch lock. What Anti-Rattle part number would I use? They specify for lesser or greater than 2-5/8inch and cannot find the exact measurements to order for this hitch. Would it be this one: Item # 63232 or the XL: item # SHP2040-XL or another one? Thanks,

asked by: Steven

Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 13530 is an excellent option for a 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. It offers bolt-on installation with no cutting or drilling required and has plenty of strength for a bike rack or towing if needed.

In regards to anti-rattle compatibility, this is not as straight forward as you'd think because most bike racks use a specific threaded hitch pin. If the bike rack however has a hollow shank and non-threaded hitch pin then you can use a device such as the Anti-Rattle Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock part # 63232 which would be correct. That said, some bike racks sway no matter what type of anti-rattle device you use so that is something to keep in mind.

I know it's a bit unnerving to see the bike rack swaying back and forth but this isn't necessarily a sign of a problem. The other option you have is a stability strap, the Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories part # 18050.

expert reply by: Conner L