Recommendation for a Bumper Hitch for 1998 Ford Explorer To Mount Bike Rack  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Curt Bumper Hitch, # E-3S, which you reference, is a universal fit design and made to attach to a truck step bumper. The mounting holes are 8-1/2 inches center to center between the holes. I have included a photograph with the dimensions of the mounting holes for you to check out.

If your 1998 Ford Explorer has a step bumper and has mounting holes with the 8-1/2 inch dimension then the Curt Bumper Hitch will bolt to your bumper. If you do not have holes that will line up with the hitch you can still use the hitch, but you would have to drill new holes.

The weight capacity of the Curt hitch is 5,000 lbs. gross towing weight and 500 lbs. tongue weight. But the actual towing capacity will be that of the lowest rated item in the system which is either the vehicle capacity, the bumper capacity or the hitch itself.

You can then couple that with a hitch mounted bike rack like the SportRack, part # SR2703, for 1-/1/4" and 2" hitch receivers. I have included a video review of this bike rack for your reference.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across I recommend using bike adapter bar # 64005. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance.

expert reply by: Chris O

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