Troubleshooting a Thule Helium 2 Bike Rack Stuck in Trailer Hitch

Updated 10/31/2017 | Published 10/30/2017

Question:

The tightening/locking knob does not work in either direction knob is unlocked and turns freely. I cannot remove the stinger from the hitch, seems to be stuck somehow. Is there a way to take it apart? Suggestions very much appreciated.

asked by: Laszlo W

Expert Reply:

The Thule Helium can be a little tricky to operate its anti-rattle and anti-theft knob, because of the construction.

First thing you'll want to try is locking and unlocking the bolt a few times, or trying to spin the key in the locked position. Sometimes during installation, this gets turned 90 degrees and will behave counter to the printed images.

Next, you'll want to try lifting up a little on the rack when you try to turn the knob. The anti-rattle works off of pressure, and sometimes it can overtighten in the hitch. Lifting can alleviate some of the pressure and let the knob work properly. You can also wiggle to see if it will loosen a bit.

This same concept applies to the knob, and sometimes pushing into the knob can help it better grab the internal mechanism and loosen it.

Finally, this can indicate a theft attempt, and the lock has been broken or tampered with. You'll want to replace both locks with part # TH450200, giving you a new set of keyed-alike locks for the arms and the base of the rack. As long as you can unlock the rack with your existing keys, you will be able to replace the key with the included locks. Additionally, while the lock is removed, there's nothing preventing the bolt from engaging, giving you a chance to remove the rack.

If these steps don't work, let me know and I can get you in contact with Thule's warranty department to help replace and further troubleshoot the rack.

expert reply by: Jacob W