Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendations for a 2012 Fiat 500
Question:
Do I need to have the hitch intalled by a professionnal in hitche installation or I can do it myself?
asked by: Nathalie
Expert Reply:
Installation of a trailer hitch like # C11363 is something that you could do at home if you have at least some experience with automotive projects. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you to view as well as a video showing a typical installation. Having an assistant will help. Also, many people do not own torque wrenches, but you can usually borrow them from auto parts stores.
If you plan on towing, first consult the vehicle owners manual. For a ball mount use # 3593. For a 1-7/8 inch ball use # 19256 and for a 2 inch ball use # 19258. And for trailer wiring use # 118546. I have linked instructions for the wiring as well. The Curt hitch also requires the use of the stabilizer strap # 18050
If you are using the hitch for a bike rack you will need to make sure that the rack you choose is compatible with a Class I trailer hitch. And with a Class I trailer hitch you will be limited to 2 bikes. For a compatible rack that fits this description I recommend the Swagman Titan, # S63400. I have included a link to a video review for you.
If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical men's bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # 64005. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wife's bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all. I have linked a video that shows how the adapter works.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Tie Down Straps
- CURT
more information >
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 1-7/8 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 2000 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 3500 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Draw-Tite Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitch - 2-1/8" Rise, 2-3/4" Drop - 6-5/8" Long - 2K
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- Fixed Ball Mount
- No Ball
- 3/4 Inch Ball Hole Diameter
- Steel Shank - Gloss Black
- Drop - 3 Inch
- Rise - 2 Inch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- 2000 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- 24-3/8 - 33-3/4 Inch Long
- Swagman
more information >
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class I
- 200 lbs TW
- 2000 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Swagman Titan Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Swagman
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Arms
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Standard
- 2 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Bike and Rack Lock
- Fits Most Factory Spoilers
- 2 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
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