Anti-Rattle Device Suggestion while using a Towing Bike Rack and Pop Up Camper

Question:

I have a 2009 Honda Pilot that I am starting to use to pull my 22 ft Coleman Rio Grande popup camper. While the Pilot seems to handle this trailer very well, there is a bit of play between the 2inch hitch and the 2inch hitch receiver that was not evident on the 1997 Ford F-150 that I was using to pull the trailer. I notice that there is a bit of noise when on bumpy roads. I am planning on ordering soon from you a clamp on Bike rack. I am asking for your recommendation about a product to reduce the slop between the hitch and receiver. Do you recommend the Roadmaster Quiet Hitch for 2inch Trailer Hitches ... or a anti-wobble device such as a threaded hitch pin, intended to keep the rack stable during use, especially when I am not towing the trailer but using the bike carrier?

asked by: Dave C

Helpful Expert Reply:

For use while towing with your pop up camper trailer and hitch mounted towing bike rack, the best option would be to use the Anti-Rattle Device for a 2 inch hitch # 63232. This device will eliminate any additional rattling by pulling the ball mount portion of the hitch to one side. It also provides a secure locking mechanism for your hitch.

Please keep in mind that this locking device can only be used on hollow hitch devices, it is also advised to remove this locking mechanism when the ball mount and hitch are not in use.

Since you have chosen the Curt Clamp-On 3 # C18013 that mounts to the outside of the ball mount, it will not interfere with the # 63232 Anti-Rattle Device. Also, keep in mind that the # C18013 needs at least 3 inches of space from the face of the receiver to the ball platform. If you would like a longer ball mount, to accommodate the 3 inches needed for mounting the carrier I recommend any of the theses options:

Draw-Tite Extra Long Ball Mount # 2736
Bropy Extra Long Ball Mount # EA40
Curt Extra Long Ball Mount # D-28

If you choose to use an extended ball mount it might be possible to use the Quiet Hitch # RM-061 in conjunction with your # HR135.

Without using an extended ball mount there is definitely limited space available to mount the Quiet Hitch # RM-061, and it might not work optimally. Therefore, I would advise using the # 63232 in your existing ball mount set up.

Please note that the weight of the bike rack, the bikes, any cargo that you have behind the rear axle, and the trailer weight would count as tongue weight. Please check with your owners manual and make sure that the weight of these accessories do not exceed either the towing capacity or tongue weight of your vehicle. I have included a link to a helpful article explaining tongue weight for your reference.

Also keep in mind, that while using the bike rack and towing your pop up trailer your turning radius would be decreased. Use caution not to damage either your trailer or bikes.

I have included links to the parts listed above, installation instructions, as well as some videos.