Looking For Replacement Hitch Tightening Knob For Thule 4-Bike Rack

Updated 06/18/2026 | Published 06/15/2026

Question:

I have a Thule 4-back rack that goes in my trailer hitch receiver. If I had to guess, the rack is probably 10 years old or so but only used 1-2 times per year. In any case, the knob that tightens the mechanism that goes into the hitch does not work anymore locked or unlocked ... perhaps stripped. Is there a replacement part?

asked by: Ross C

Expert Reply:

Hey Ross, thanks for reaching out. We may have the part you need, but replacement parts for bike racks are typically model specific.

Do you happen to know the part number and/or name of your Thule rack? That will help me narrow down what replacement parts are available. Let me know.

expert reply by: Jesse M

Ross C.

6/18/2026

Jesse - I think I bought it from you guys so maybe you have a record, but I am pretty sure it is the Thule 9025 Apex 4-Bike Hitch Mounted rack (from 2015 or so). Thank you.

Jesse M.

6/18/2026

@RossC Ok awesome! We do have a replacement anti-rattle knob for that. You'll need the following: - Replacement Locking Anti-Rattle Knob for Thule Apex Bike Racks and Rain Gutter Foot Packs - Qty 1 # 753-0073

Ross

6/18/2026

@JesseM I don't think that knob is the specific issue (after looking at your link and video) ... I think the issue is with the threading somewhere else in the mechanism.

Jesse M.

6/18/2026

@Ross Yea that makes sense. That would mean replacing the entire shank assembly, but unfortunately that isn't something we carry since the original 9025 Apex was discontinued and replaced with the newer Apex XT 9026 about 7 years ago. It might be worth reaching out directly to Thule to see if they know of a fix, but it might just be time for a new rack.