How To Use Thule T2 Classic TH9044 In Vehicles That Have 2 or 1-1/4 Receiver

Updated 08/06/2021 | Published 08/05/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Replacement Aluminum Shank Adapter - 1-1/4" to 2"

(67)

$52.71

Replacement 1-1/4" Hitch and Backbone Assembly for Thule T2 Classic 2-Bike Platform Rack

(5)

$203.58

Hitch Reducer 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver

(251)

$79.86

Question:

I have cars with both 2” and 1.25” receivers. I have a Thule T2Classic 916XTR. If I want to convert the 916 from 2” stinger/shank to 1.25”, is the 753370902 the correct parts? By converting from the 2” to 1.25” shank I would assume that would maximize the weight to be carried for both cars/receivers? This would seem to be the better choice than using a reducer. If I have a 1.25 shank on the 916XTR, is there an adaptor that would let me use it in a 2” receiver ? The aluminum one offered by Thule seems to fit only 3 models, none of which are the 916. By using such an adaptor to go up in size, is there any limitation on weight created like when you go down via a reducer. Thanks. Know lots of questions!

asked by: Steve T

Helpful Expert Reply:

You are correct, you will want to replace the 2" shank on your Thule T2 Classic 2 Bike Rack # TH9044 with the Replacement 1-1/4" Hitch and Backbone Assembly # 753370902.

This will allow you to use the rack in your vehicle with a 1-1/4" receiver, and also in your vehicle with a 2" receiver by using the 2" to 1-1/4" reducer # HT02. Using this reducer will not reduce the capacities of your 2" hitch, but if you kept the 2" shank and used a hitch expander on your 1-1/4" hitch your hitch would have its capacities reduced by 50% which would be less than ideal and may make it where you cannot carry the rack and bikes at all.

I included a few video reviews for you to take a look at.

expert reply by: Samuel C