Can Weight Distribution Hitch Be Used with Hitch Extender Like
Updated 06/15/2015 | Published 06/12/2015
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Question:
Can this hitch be used with a hitch extender? The extender is a dual so that I can haul a bike rack between my truck and camper. Without the extender I do not need the hitch but with it Im concerned about tounge weigh. Tw rating on my truck is 350 or 700 with WD.
asked by: Dave
Expert Reply:
A hitch extender or adapter, like the dual-receiver MT70070, cannot be used with weight distribution (WD) systems. As you note, use of ANY adapter has the unavoidable side-effect of cutting your hitch's capacity by 50-percent. An adapter would prevent the WD system from doing its job of shifting trailer tongue weight forward to the Dakota's front axle to keep your braking and steering performance intact.
But we do have better alternatives for you. If you have an a-frame trailer with available space on the frame, and if your bike rack has a 2-inch shankand is RV-rated, you could use the Stromberg Carlson Bike Bunk # CC-275. This bolts to your a-frame trailer (it fits frames from 14- to 55-inches wide) and provides a receiver opening for a 2-inch bike rack. Do note that your bike rack MUST be rated for use on a trailer; not all racks are rated for trailer use. The linked page will show you 2-inch hitch racks that are rated for use on a trailer, an example being the Swagman Original # S64400 4 bike hitch.
Other options include a bike rack that can attach to the rear of your camper, such as to a hitch installed there, or you might use a rack designed for ladder mounting if your camper has this feature. Surco # SP501BR is one example of a ladder-mount rack. A link to all types of RV-rated bike racks is provided for you along with two helpful articles that will help you determine the best choice for your camper and bikes.
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