Troubleshooting a Thule Apex Bike Rack That Won't Tighten In Hitch

Question

Question:

Thule Apex knob tightens not spins when the lock is disengaged BUT it wont tighten in the hitch. The bar that is supposed to move to expand inside the hitch does not.

asked by: Mike O

0

Expert Reply:

It sounds like the anti-rattle mechanism on your Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes # TH9025XT has gone bad and needs to be replaced.

If the key is in the locked position the knob will freely spin, but if it never tightens then there is an issue with the anti-rattle mechanism.

I'd recommend reaching out to Thule for a replacement as this isn't something they offer as a replaceable part.

expert reply by: Bryce D

0

Answer 1

Since the tightening knob for your Thule Apex 9026 bike rack (replaced by the Apex XT #TH9026XT) is spinning you want to first verify that the key is in the unlocked position. This bike rack had a neat feature where the knob would just free-spin when…

view full answer...

Answer 2

You'll just need to unlock the knob on the Thule T2 Pro XT #TH83JV and then continue tightening it down until it is snug, wobbling it along the way to make sure that it is secure in the hitch receiver. If you fast forward through the attached…

view full answer...

Answer 3

I have a solution for you. You can't convert the Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Bike Platform Rack #TH23JV to a 2 inch hitch according to Thule so you will need to use a different kind of adapter. I recommend using the Brophy Hitch Reducer 2" to…

view full answer...

Answer 4

For your Thule T2 classic the correct hitch pin/lock replacement you'd need is the part #THSTL2 which comes with everything needed. The bolt you mentioned does not fit the T2 so it would not be what you need.

view full answer...

Answer 5

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

view full answer...

Answer 6

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

view full answer...

Answer 7

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…

view full answer...

Answer 8

Hello Todd, thanks for reaching out. If you are wanting something with longer forks or "arms" as we call them, we do have a few options that will be longer than the 22" arms on your Rola rack. First, we have the Saris Glide EX #SA774.…

view full answer...

Answer 9

Hey Paul, thanks for reaching out! Yes, the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver #e55ZR installation will be the same for your 2025 Subaru Ascent. We actually had the opportunity to install this on a 2022 model so I'm attaching that video and a photo…

view full answer...

Answer 10

Thanks for checking, Angie. While the Thule Outpace 2 Bike Rack #TH39SA is rated for passenger vehicles and motorhomes, it’s not currently approved for use on flat-towed vehicles like your CR-V in tow. The added torque from towing can stress the…

view full answer...

Answer 11

Marcus, you’re on the right track asking about clearance. From the hitch pin hole to the folded rack’s closest point is 4-1/4", and most Wrangler spares stick out around 8-10. That means the Thule OutPace Bike Rack for 2 Bikes #TH39SA won’t fold…

view full answer...

Answer 12

The Thule Apex Swing XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swinging #TH9027XT typically fits most Jeeps with spare tires on the back, but you will need to take a measurement to verify. The distance from the hitch receiver pin hole to the…

view full answer...