Replacement Straps For Older Thule Hitching Post Pro Cradles

Question:

I am looking for a replacement cradle/strap for a Thule hitch hanging 4 bike rack. I have not found an exact replacement as my strap and cradle are all one piece and it appears that they are now 2 pieces, do you have a recommendation for a replacement?

asked by: Betsy C

Helpful Expert Reply:

Thank you for the images. I was able to verify you have an older Thule Hitching Post Pro. This will use the Replacement Strap # 753-3535 as the Cradle # 853-5829 is a separate piece.

expert reply by: Bud M

Thule Hitching Post Pro Bike Carrier
(click to enlarge)

Thule Hitching Post Pro Broken Cradle Strap
(click to enlarge)

Betsy

3/2/2024

Hello. I ordered these replacement parts for my bike rack and record them this week. Order #120516925 I am having an extremely difficult time getting the cradle body onto my Thule rack. I am rocking back and forth and have it on the tube around 2.5 inches, but need to go over a foot more, and have 3 more to do. Just getting the one on this far has taken me several attempts. Do you have any suggestions to get these on the tube? These are SIGNIFICANTLY tighter than what they are replacing, I still had to rock those off but I am using so much more force on the replacements and they are hardly budging. I would appreciate any suggestions. Thank you

Bud M.

3/4/2024

@Betsy I have a couple options which could help you. The first is the preferred method and that is using air from an air compressor to blow into the rubber on the channel. This allows the cushion to more easily slide on the steel and work into place. As I know not everyone has an air compressor or the necessary nozzle to spray into the cradle you can also use a lubricant to help slide it over. Do make sure the lubricant you use is safe for use on rubber. Some dish soap is a good option or a spray on lubricant with silicone can be useful.