What is the Purpose of M6 Screws for Thule Apex XT 4 Bike Rack
Updated 08/13/2025 | Published 06/28/2020
Question:
What is the purpose of the two M6 screws? Page 4, # 1 on the instructions The pdf instructions are not very clear, and I actually installed the rack without noticing that I had to attach the two screws, so added them after the fact. Can anyone confirm if these are needed, since my rack seemed to install and work okay without them initially? What do they do?
asked by: Andrew
Helpful Expert Reply:
When you receive the Thule Apex XT 4 Bike Rack # TH9025XT the shank is folded up against the main mast of the rack. Those two M6 x 25 mm screws are what help to keep the shank from folding up like that again. They are more or less a security measure to help keep the bike rack from coming into contact with your vehicle so yes, you will want to install them even though you can technically use the bike rack without installing them.
Tom
8/13/2025
Jon we have a Thule Apex XT and it is stuck in the up position and item A on your diagram will not release to lower the bike rack. It appears the latch inside is stuck and locked on the square 3-4" bar inside. any clue how to fix? Tom
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 4 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
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Michael
8/3/2025
Thanks for guidance...but when you install the m6 bolts, the mast won't fold away the rear door, which is the best feature of this rack. Is it just Thule covering its ass?