Can I Lower The Tailgate Of My 2000 Toyota Tacoma When I Carry Bikes On My Swagman Chinook

Question:

Hey there! Im considering purchasing the Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4inch and 2inch Hitches - Frame Mountinch From etrailer. I have a 2000 Toyota Tacoma. I am concerned that I will not be able to open my tailgate, with the bikes mounted, even with the tilt feature... Do you have any insight into this concern? if I cant open the tailgate with the bikes on and tilted. I wonder if I can at least open the tailgate if the bikes are off the rack... Thanks for your time!

asked by: Dave W

Expert Reply:

Adding a hitch extender will allow you to lower your tailgate while your Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount, part # S64683, while it is installed on your 2000 Toyota Tacoma. With this addition, you will reduce the maximum tongue weight of your hitch receiver by 50%. I recommend the Roadmaster Anti-Rattle Hitch Extender for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 7-3/4" Extension, part # RM-071-1075, adds 7-3/4" to your hitch receiver. This will be enough distance to allow you to lower your tailgate while carrying bikes on your hitch bike rack.

Without this hitch extender you will only have partial access, when you are carrying bikes on your vehicle. With the Swagman Chinook , you will not be able to lower your tailgate completely when you are carrying a bike. It will be very close, whether or not you will have enough room to open your tailgate completely, when your Chinook is in the tilt down position and empty.

I have included three different video reviews of different pickup trucks with the Chinook installed, so you can see how much room you will have when it is installed on your vehicle, a product description link, and a video review of the hitch extender below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith