Availability of Replacement Shank for Swagman XP # 64960 Bike Rack

Updated 09/17/2012 | Published 09/11/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement 1-1/4" and 2" Shank for Swagman XP Bike Carriers

(5)

$35.92

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

(672)

$17.20

Question:

I recently hauled 4 bikes on this rack on some rougher roads in Potter and Tioga counties in PA. Using a dual receiver hitch I also was towing my Triton aluminum trailer. The 1 1/4-2inch curved shank must have bent and the rack is now tilting backward, bringing the bikes dangerously close to hitting the trailer on sharp turns. I would like to replace the curved 1 1/4inch shank that has adapters to fit my 2inch hitch, with a full 2inch shank. I dont think it would even need to have the upwards curve. Would something like the etrailer replacement foot and 2inch shank work? Or does swagman make a 2inch shank with the threaded hole that I can continue to use the bolt that came with the bike rack to make it a tight fitting rattle free mount? I am looking for something that will work and not bend on rough roads with the weight of 4 comfort bikes on the rack. However I think it is important to have the threaded hole in it. Vehicle is 2004 Ford Explorer XLT.

asked by: Gary S

Expert Reply:

The correct replacement shank for your Swagman XP # S64960 is part # P315, as long as your rack was manufactured after 2009. The # P132 shank you referenced is a replacement shank for Swagman 3 bike racks, and is not designed to accommodate 4 bikes nor is it designed to work with your Swagman XP model. I have confirmed this by phone with Swagman. The # P315 does feature a threaded pin hole.

According to my Swagman representative, there is not a 2 inch only shank available for your bike rack.

Keep in mind that the rack has a weight capacity of 35 lbs per bike or 140 lb total. Because comfort-type bikes are typically fairly heavy, I would recommend determining their weight and making sure you are not exceeding the capacity of the rack. Keep in mind that if the capacity of the rack is being exceeded, the shock that the rack experiences by driving on rough pavement will damage it.

Once you get the shank replaced, a stabilizing strap like # 18050 might be a good choice for providing extra support for the rack on those bumpy roads you mentioned. I have linked you to a video showing how the strap is used.

expert reply by: Mike L