Troubleshooting Stuck Hitch Pin in Yakima Bike Rack

Updated 11/27/2024 | Published 11/26/2024

Question:

On my daughters Yakama bike rack the hitch pin 8890231 is rusted and stuck inside the hitch. We have tried to use rust penetrant on it and pulling it out. Any suggestions on how to remove the pin Thank you

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

Hey Michael, if the rack is off the vehicle I would pour some gear oil into a small pan and then put the end of the bike rack under the oil (submerged) and leave it sit for a day and that should hopefully work the rust loose enough to allow it to thread out.

If on the vehicle still spray the hitch pin with WD40 every few hours and try tapping on it with a hammer to get the oil to start working. You'll basically need to keep repeating this till it loosens up. If there's no plastic nearby you can also try a torch to heat everything up.

expert reply by: Jameson C