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Topic: 2019 Mid-Bath - Receiver Hitch Extension (Read 231 times) previous topic - next topic
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2019 Mid-Bath - Receiver Hitch Extension
We have a Roadmaster 10,000 lb dual hitch extender on our motorhome. The bottom hitch is for our Blue Ox tow bar to tow a Honda Fit and the top hitch is for a bike rack that carries one 30 lb bike. We've been using this configuration for several years with no problems.

I recently saw on RV Fails on Facebook a dual extender that failed while someone was towing a Jeep. Pictures of the hitch (which I've included) show something that appears to be lesser quality than a Roadmaster. Among the many comments was a recommendation for GEN-Y hitch extender, which looks very heavy duty and industrial - and pricey.

Mega-Duty Drop Hitch 10K Dual Receiver - GEN-Y HITCH

So am I good with the Roadmaster or should I consider a GEN-Y ?

Thanks,

Bill Moss
2019 MB and 2010 Honda Fit
Re: 2019 Mid-Bath - Receiver Hitch Extension
Reply #1 –
Adding the broken hitch picture.
2019 MB and 2010 Honda Fit
Re: 2019 Mid-Bath - Receiver Hitch Extension
Reply #2 –
I would be happy with the roadmaster unless a visual inspection indicates signs of problems.

Roadmaster makes stuff for flat towing cars, indicating that it's probably designed for your specific use.  The rating (10,000lbs) is well beyond what you need for a Honda Fit.   The gusset (triangle piece) adds considerable strength.

If you still have doubts, call roadmaster and ask if they have any reports of failure or other recommendations.   I would particularly ask about using it 'upside down' in case the lower (top in your photo) receiver is stronger than the other.  

One thing any LD owner should do if towing substantial weight is to consider upgrading the hardware attaching the hitch to the coach.   Maybe things had improved by 2019, but the 2003 era (mine included) was undersized.

Hitch receiver upgrade | Flickr

Rich
2003 MB
Re: 2019 Mid-Bath - Receiver Hitch Extension
Reply #3 –
I just spoke with Roadmaster customer service and they said using it upside down is okay.
2019 MB and 2010 Honda Fit
Re: 2019 Mid-Bath - Receiver Hitch Extension
Reply #4 –
The broken hitch broke at the weld where it went from the 2" insert to the 2-1/2" piece. The switch to larger tubing caused a stress riser at this spot that led to the adapter breaking.
As Rich points out, the Roadmaster's extension triangle gusset prevents this flexing.
Roadmaster is a well-respected, long-term manufacturer of RV towing gear, their products are top notch.

We needed a bike rack but did not want the extra length as the extension would add to the towbar. I made this instead.
.

When switching to two heavy e-bikes and a much heavier rack, the bumper would flex, not having enough strength where the new receiver was added.  To address this issue and raise the bike rack higher above the towbar, a new reinforced receiver was fabricated.





Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: 2019 Mid-Bath - Receiver Hitch Extension
Reply #5 –
Hi Bill;  That GenY hitch looks like something I would use on a diesel pusher to tow a very heavy enclosed trailer, with a Jeep inside.  A light Honda Fit with another 30# bicycle isn't much of a load for a good quality hitch.  RoadMaster makes good quality products.
   As Rich and Larry did, I enhanced my hitch after I got my motorhome. A welder friend (certified professional). He had heavy duty equipment, and expertise. He rewelded and added more beads to the hitch I got from LD. Especially the small piece 'tack' welded around the receiver entrance. (He welded at the back of it so it looks the same in the picture) I had him add the roller for rare occasions when I had to go through narrow driveways quickly. Useful even when not towing. 
    Yearly or so, I recheck that the bolts and nuts are still tight, no slop!  RonB
    edit: I used doubled grade 8 washers on the top under the heads of the bolts in the middle picture, so the bolt heads would wouldn't pull through the bumper.
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB