Bumper Mounted Hitch Recommendation for a Trailer with a 4 inch Bumper Carrying Thule T2 Bike Rack

Question:

Im interested in finding a suitable hitch receiver for my 4inch tube bumper on the back of my Hi-Lo. I just want to use it for accessories, not for towing. A bike rack or a cargo carrier. Any ideas on how I can verify the weight capacity of the bumper. This is the bike rack I have Thule T2 # TH916XTR, and Im pretty sure its heavier than the the option offered up by Jack in an earlier reply RV Bumper 2 Bike Rack for Around the Spare Tire - Swagman Around the Spare Mighty Rack Swagman RV and Motorhome Bike Racks S80500. 2004 Hi-Lo Towlite 24T

asked by: JR

Expert Reply:

First thing you need to determine is the capacity for the 4 inch by 4 inch bumper you have on your Hi-Lo. The Curt Hitch # E-100 has a 350 lb tongue weight capacity so it would have plenty of capacity for your Thule T2 Pro XTR bike rack part # TH69XT plus the weight of your two bikes.

Your T2 # TH69XT weighs 96 lbs and has a capacity of 160 lbs when set up for 4 bikes or the weighs 52 pounds with a capa 172 lbs for the 2-bike set up. This bike rack is that it is rated for use on a Motorhome but not a travel trailer like your hi-lo so this setup will not work for you.

For a setup confirmed to fit the rougher ride found at the back of a motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer like your hi-lo you could look at the # S94FR for 2 bikes or a hanging rack from Thule # Y02476 for 4 bikes.

Curt states that all non-trailer loads - bike racks, cargo carriers and so forth - should be supported with stabilizing straps. Failure to properly support these loads will void your hitch warranty from Curt. For that you would want the part # 18050.