Fixing Thule Parkway 4 bike Rack That's Rattling In Vehicle Hitch

Updated 08/18/2014 | Published 08/16/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Snug Tite Hitch Lock and Anti-Rattle Device

(597)

$64.45

Brophy Stabilizer Clamp and U-Bolt for 2" Hitch Receiver - Black Powder Coated Steel

(148)

$31.25

Question:

Hi, I have an older model Thule parkway 4 hitch bike rack. We are using the 2 inch adapter that fits over top of the 1 1/4 shank but the unit rattles a lot. Im wondering if there is something that would stabilize it? Please let me know.

asked by: Suzanne

Expert Reply:

Where exactly is the rattling occurring? If the looseness is between the 1-1/4 inch shank and the 2 inch adapter sleeve, make sure the Allen head screw that secures the sleeve onto the shank is fully tightened. You can try a wrap or two of electrical tape around the 1-1/4 inch shank to act as a shim and hopefully tighten things up a bit. If the rattle is between the 2 inch sleeve and the inside of your receiver tube, you'll need to snug up the hitch bolt a little bit so it fits more tightly.

If its the rack itself that's rattling, check all the hardware on the rack and make sure everything is snugged down correctly, and that there aren't any loose pieces.

Hopefully, one of the strategies mentioned above will calm things down for you.

The RSCP anti-rattle device might help things, but the fully tightened hitch bolt should be taking care of things.

expert reply by: Mike L