Community Forums

brandss · 05-08-2022, 07:17 PM

Got to thinking about this today after pulling into a campground. When we bring our bikes we put them on the top of a dual receiver and the tow bar into the bottom receiver. Problem is, when we disconnect the toad, I can't fold the tow bar into it's stowed, locked position. I use a strap to keep it up.

Can I add an extension, would probably have to be 1 1/2 to 2 ft, so I can store the tow bars properly. Have never thought of this and thought I would ask.

redbaron73 · 05-08-2022, 07:19 PM

I have run hitch extension, but these are less than 12inches. I would be worried about the angles with longer extensions.

jpstakun · 05-08-2022, 08:00 PM

I had a bike rack on the top of my hitch, so I had to use a 2 foot extension. I used it for years with no problems. Just make sure the tow bar is level as required.

Mr.Goodbar · 05-08-2022, 10:14 PM

Be sure the extension has the same class rating as the hitch.

bentjm · 05-09-2022, 06:50 AM

Think about the number of physical connections you will have:

1. At the receiver at the coach
2. At the receiver at the bottom of the dual receiver
3. At the receiver at the end of the extension
4. At the baseplate on the toad

That is a lot of pins and a lot of slop.

Country Road · 05-09-2022, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brandss

Got to thinking about this today after pulling into a campground. When we bring our bikes we put them on the top of a dual receiver and the tow bar into the bottom receiver. Problem is, when we disconnect the toad, I can't fold the tow bar into it's stowed, locked position. I use a strap to keep it up.

Can I add an extension, would probably have to be 1 1/2 to 2 ft, so I can store the tow bars properly. Have never thought of this and thought I would ask.

I realize my response is not an answer to your question, but I’ll suggest it anyway. According to responses from others, it seems it certainly is possible to do what you’re asking. I would be more concerned about running into it in the dark and busting my butt or my wife doing that and all hell breaking out.

My solution would be to fabricate a “rigid” way to fasten it without the extra hardware of extending it. You could very easily have someone do this without having to use straps.

Or you could raise the bike rack the necessary inches to allow no change to your tow bar.

Dodge Guy · 05-09-2022, 09:10 AM

Not sure id be comfortable with an extension in an extension!

brandss · 05-09-2022, 09:36 AM

I appreciate the responses. After hearing the views and giving it thought, I don't think there is a big benefit to me trying an extension for all of the reasons posted. I think I am better off using the method I have and getting a stronger strap to keep it up, along with a secondary strap for extra security.

rffowler55 · 05-09-2022, 11:26 AM

We have 2 ebikes in the top dual hitch position and a 7" extension in the bottom which gives me just enough room to get the tow bar into the locking mechanism.

dvspl · 05-09-2022, 02:40 PM

I use one of these Gen-Y drop hitches. They offer multiple variations of drop and rise so I can separate my bike rack far enough above my tow bar so have no trouble getting the tow bar to stowed position. Choose the one that meets your needs.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B68KTVV/

redbaron73 · 05-09-2022, 03:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dvspl

I use one of these Gen-Y drop hitches. They offer multiple variations of drop and rise so I can separate my bike rack far enough above my tow bar so have no trouble getting the tow bar to stowed position. Choose the one that meets your needs.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B68KTVV/

I love those hitches. I have to use the 12" as a riser for my tow bar.

GenY has a warning about the 15", stating not to use it as a riser. You can use the 12" portion as a riser, but not the 15" portion. I am sure for the weight of a bicycle carrier, it will be fine, but not for anything really heavy.

Jake21 · 05-13-2022, 02:01 PM

I have used a splitter and extension for over 100,000 miles. No trouble at all.

ChrisDParise · 05-14-2022, 09:10 AM

Maybe I missed it, why aren't you carrying the bikes on or in your toad?

Crasher · 05-14-2022, 06:49 PM

15 years ago, I had a second 2" receiver welded to the top of the oem 10,000# receiver. I installed a Blue Ox motorcycle carrier on the top receiver which also had smaller receivers mounted on the outside of hitch frame mounts creating a ridged 3 point mount. I then inserted a 3' extension into the lower oem receiver. I tied it to the upper tube supporting the bike which gave it the side to side stability of the upper three point mount I then inserted my Blue Ox tow bar to the extension and hooked up my 6300# Avalanche. I traveled from the mid west to AZ and north into ID for several years without a single hitch issue. It was easy to fold the towbar when not in use. The only problem I had was overloading the 235/80/22.5 tires on my Phaeton with the 950# dresser on the back. However, Bob Tiffin stepped up and paid 50% of a set of 275/80/22.5 tires and all was well.

Edit> I might add that by loosening 4 bolts and pulling 3 pins, I could remove the carrier and extension. Then hook up to a trailer or just tow four down.