Using an Anti-Rattle Device with a Trailer Hitch Reducer for a Bike Rack

Updated 02/25/2013 | Published 02/19/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Quiet Hitch for 2" Trailer Hitches

(1546)

$35.74

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

(667)

$15.80

Trailer Hitch Anti-Rattle Kit for 1-1/4" Trailer Hitches

(78)

$21.39

Question:

I have a bike rack with a a 1 1/4 inch mount. Im using a reducer to attach the rack to my 2 in Honda Odyssey hitch. The slop and extra sway seems dangerous. Should I be worried? Should I be using two RM-061s to secure the bike rack? One connecting the reducer to the Odyssey. Another connecting the reducer to the bike rack? Thanks. This is all new to me.

asked by: Jason

Expert Reply:

When using hitch mounted accessories, some play/rattle is expected simply because trailer hitches and bike racks are manufactured by different companies. This play will become even greater when a hitch reducer, adapter or extender is used. In these situations, eliminating as much play as possible is a good idea because you do not want too many parts moving or bouncing around while you are on the road.

You can use the Roadmaster Quiet Hitch, # RM-061, as an anti-rattle device between the trailer hitch and the reducer, but it will most likely not work between the reducer and the bike rack because it was designed for use with 2 inch trailer hitches only.

There are a few things you can do to eliminate the rattle between the bike rack and the reducer. If the shank of your bike rack is hollow, you could use an anti-rattle hitch pin like part # F-315. The block with the nut inserts into the shank of the bike rack and the pin threads through the nut pulling the bike rack shank against the hitch reducer.

If the shank of your bike rack is not hollow, then you could use a stabilization strap like part # 18050. This will loop around the bike rack and hook to the bottom edge of your rear hatch. The strap can then be tightened to help reduce movement of the bike rack. I have attached a video of my co-worker demonstrating how to use the stabilizing strap with a bike rack.

expert reply by: John H