Use of a Hitch Extender for a Short Pinhole Distance to Use a Thule Apex XT 4 # TH9025XT

Question

Question:

Good morning. We purchased a Thule Apex XT 4 Bike Rack for 1-1/4inch and 2inch Hitches - Tilting - TH9025XT from etrailer.com a few years ago. We now have a 2019 Toyota Highlander, but were disappointed to discover that the vehicles factory-installed standard 2inch tow receiver is not compatible. According to the Thule specs, the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the face of the hitch must be 1-1/2inch or greater to use this rack, and the vehicles hitch pin hole is less than 1-1/2 inch inch. Is it possible to use something like the Roadmaster Hitch Extender for Tow Bars - 2inch Hitches - 7-3/4inch Extension Item # RM-071-75 to make the bike rack compatible with the vehicle? We plan to place three regular bicycles on the rack, so the weight would be minimal. Thank you.

asked by: Pamela F

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Expert Reply:

I went ahead and spoke to my contact at Thule, and while you can technically use a hitch extender like the Roadmaster # RM-071-75, this will void the warranty if a problem were to occur with your Thule Apex XT 4 # TH9025XT. Although, the Roadmaster provides you with 2-1/2" of length from the center of the outer pinhole to the face of the extender. It is also important to note that you decrease your overall hitch weight capacity by 50% when using this hitch extender.

If you are set on continuing to use your Thule Apex XT 4 # TH9025XT, the absolute safest option that won't void the warranty is to install a different hitch. I recommend the etrailer Hitch - 2" # e98844. The hitch pinhole distance from the face of the hitch is definitely compatible with the requirements by Thule. You can also rest assured that the rack won't interfere with your rear bumper when used on the # e98844.

expert reply by: Bob C

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