Strengthen and replace hitch receiver on rear of trailer

[bliss53]

We have a 2024 Passport that has a 1.5-inch receiver on the back that has a listed capacity of 300 pounds. We want to carry two 56-pound bikes. We have a Kuat rack that is rated for the weight and rated for use with an RV, but it requires a 2.5-inch receiver. We tried a 1.5 to 2.0 adapter with an added "u" clamp to tighten the connection but there was a great deal of movement. The bikes looked like they were bouncing on the end of a diving board. We tried a 2.0-inch bumper clamp on receiver with similar results. Has anyone added a 2.0-inch receiver by bolting or welding it to the trailer frame? Any other ideas? We currently carry the bikes over the truck tailgate, but this is difficult to load and takes up bed space. We would prefer to use the bedcover and carry some things in the bed out of the weather.

 

[breal14]

They don't seem to make 1 1/4 (i think that's what you meant) to 2.5 reducers, probably for obvious reasons.

Have you tried sticking something in there, like popsicle sticks or something? some rubber/silicone coupler material? all you really need to do is fill the space with something.

 

[team bradfield]

Can you add a hitch to the front of your truck?

 

[BGMAC]

Can you attach a picture of how you have the U clamps connected? You should use 2. One from the car hitch to the adapter and one from the adapter your bike rack.
Below is a pic on how to use the clamps.

 

[osuallen]

The 300 lb capacity is not for the bouncing torsion that will be caused by a bike rack. It will experience loads much greater than 300 lbs.

 

[Wemustrv]

Welcome to RV Forums from Ely, Iowa. I would take the rig to shop that does hitch installs and have them look the strength of the frame members to the rear. If all is good they could custom install the proper hitch. You also need to consider how the added weight is going to effect the handling. It is best to stay away from adapters to increase the size receiver your hitch will accept. My guess is the current hitch will not tolerate the increased weight. Also the adapter adds length which increases the effect of the weight transfer and can add to the sway and movements of the rack and bikes.

 

[Crazydog]

The 300 lb capacity is not for the bouncing torsion that will be caused by a bike rack. It will experience loads much greater than 300 lbs.

I wonder why the manufacturer does not place a notice on the hitch that says "300lb capacity of stationary load".
Seems like they would take into account that people are going to load items on the hitch and not stay just parked.