Trailer Hitch, Bike Rack and Cargo Carrier Options for 35-Foot Travel Trailer

Updated 02/10/2015 | Published 02/09/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs, 22" to 72" Wide

(582)

$484.15

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(673)

$17.77

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(830)

$36.74

Curt Multipurpose Ball Mount with 2" Receiver for Bike Racks and Cargo Carriers - 7,500 lbs

(234)

$69.97

Question:

I want to install a Towing System on the back of my 35 foot Travel Trailer. I dont want to tow a truck or trailer, but I need the hitch system to put my bicycle rack and or basket to haul firewood and generator. I want to mount the hitch on the Frame of the back end of the Travel Trailer. Do you have any recommendations. I know 2 inch square receiver would have to have some length to it as it will have to clear the back bumper of the trailer. Any ideas?

asked by: Corey D

Expert Reply:

I recommend a frame mount trailer hitch such as the Curt Adjustable Width Hitch, # 13703. This is a universal RV style trailer hitch. It fits frame widths for 22 inches to 72 inches. And it will fit box frames, C-channel frames, and I-beam frames. It can also be bolted or welded on. If you choose to have the trailer hitch welded on the welding should be done by a qualified professional welder. The trailer in the video may be different from your trailer, but the video should give you an idea on what will be involved for the installation.

If you end up with this hitch then to be in compliance with the warranty requirements you must use a stabilization strap, # 18050, for non-trailer loads (such as a bike rack or cargo carrier).

To carry a bike rack or cargo carrier, you can use a multipurpose ball mount like the Curt Multipurpose Ball Mount, # D210, on your tow vehicle. This ball mount provides an additional 2 inch receiver for a bike rack or cargo carrier.

You are going to need a bike rack that is rated for use on the back of a travel trailer. I recommend the Swagman Original part # S64152-2. This bike rack can carry up to three bikes. You will most likely need an adapter bar, # 64005, to carry any ladies' or kids' bikes level, especially if the bike has a step-through frame. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.

Because of the extended distance between the rear axle and the back bumper of the average travel trailer, anything installed at the rear of the trailer is going to be subjected to increased bouncing forces they wouldn't face if installed on the rear of a passenger vehicle.

Because of this, I would be personally cautious about the weight of anything carried on the rear of a travel trailer. I'd want to leave as much 'cushion' as possible, and not get too close to the 350 lb tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch. I'd recommend the Pro Series # 63153, which the largest we offer at 24 by 60 inches. The angled shank provides increased ground clearance.