Replacement Part Availability For Older Thule Rak-N-Loc Bike Rack

Question:

Hi, I have an original Rak N Loc bike rack see pic from before they were acquired by or became Tule, not exactly sure. Im missing one of the two hitch receiver locks that came with it. See pic. of the one I have. One is/was used to secure the rack in the receiver hitch and the other used to secure the bikes once in place. I believe your hitch receiver lock for 2inch hitches, 2-5/8inch span, either Chrome or Stainless Steel would be a sufficient replacement for my missing receiver lock, correct? Additionally, Im missing the brace/bracket and screws/nuts see pic that are used to further stabilize the bike rack once ed into the receiver hitch. Is there anything you can recommend as a replacement for that piece? I believe the 2 screw holes on the bike rack itself are approx. 3/8 Thank you for any tips or guidance.

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

Since the Thule Rak N Lok has been out of production for quite a few years, Thule does not have any specs or information regarding replacement parts. That said, I will do my best to provide some helpful information or parts that may work.

Erailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches - Flush - 2-5/8" Span - Chrome # e98880 would likely work if you have a 2" receiver, but you will want to measure a few things to verify fitment. Make sure there is less than 2-5/8" from outside edge to outside edge of your receiver and make sure the pin hole is 5/8". A better option is the Bulldog Trailer Hitch Lock for 2" and 1-1/4" Hitches - Flush - 3" Span - Stainless # BD580405 which fits 1-1/4" and 2" receivers and also has 3" of span.

In regard to the bracket and hardware, I was not able to source anything so you will want to go to your local hardware store to match up some hardware and possibly find a fabricator if you need a bracket. If you cannot find all of the necessary parts to make it work, I would just upgrade to a new bike rack such as the popular Swagman Titan 2 Bike Rack for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting # S63400.

expert reply by: Andrew N