What Are Stabilizing Straps For On The Curt Trailer Hitch, # 11498, Fitting A 2005 BMW 5 Series

Updated 06/18/2010 | Published 06/17/2010

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(19)

$295.08

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

(666)

$16.05

Question:

The installation instructions say All non trailer loads applied to this product must be supported by auxiliary stabilizing straps. What are these straps, why are they needed, and where could I buy them?

asked by: JB

Expert Reply:

On the Curt Trailer Hitch, # 11498, for the 2005 BMW 5 Series, the stabilizing straps they are talking about are the Curt Bike Rack Strap with Cambuckle, # 18050.

Most trailer hitches will mount to the frame of the vehicle, which will give the support needed when using a hitch bike rack or hitch cargo carrier. The only way the trailer hitch can attach to the 2005 BMW 5 Series is by attaching to the underside of the trunk area, which does not give as much support as attaching to a frame. So that is why Curt recommends to use stabilizing straps on all non trailer loads.

This strap will attach to the bike rack and the other end to the vehicles trunk lip. It gives added support and stability to the bike rack and keeps the movement of the bike rack to a minimum, which puts less stress on the hitch.

expert reply by: Jeff D