Can the factory hitch on a 2008 be changed to a 2" receiver?

[S4per]

Hi All,

First time poster, and proud owner of a 2008 GT. I'm looking at adding a bike rack that attaches to the hitch (don't foresee myself ever towing anything). Ideally, I'm able to put 5 bikes on it, but I'm fine with 4. Having done some research, seems that most that will carry 4 bikes require a 2" receiver (I'm particularly interested in Thule's Revolver, that swings out to allow the gate to open).

So - how can I get a 2" receiver on here? I thought I saw there are some adapters available, but is that a smart way to go? Can I remove the stock hitch and put an aftermarket one on (sorry, haven't had time to look under the car)?

Any/all thoughts appreciated.

Thanks,
Per

 

[ceric]

Actually I see several 4-bike racks here...
http://www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-Hitch_Bike_Racks-co-Tilting_Rack-pt-4_Bikes.aspx

I have a 3-Bike SportRack.

 

[S4per]

Thanks for the pointers, I'll do some looking.

Ceric - looking at your sig: did you remove the factory hitch to put the Hidden one on, or did it not come with one from the factory?

 

[ceric]

I had no OE hitch.
After-market hitches sit below the rear bumper (compared to the OE one).

 

[IslandTractor]

Many companies sell adapters (aoub t$30) to go from Class 2 hitch to Class 3 (2 inch) receiver. That allows you to use the more standard 2 inch receiver hitch bike racks. Only problem is that it also cuts the "tongue weight" capacity in half so the combo of bikes plus rack cannot weigh more than ?150lbs (I haven't checked but that's assuming the stock hitch has a max tongue weight of 300lbs).

Better solution is to use an aftermarket Class 3 hitch to begin with.

 

[gtxjoe]

Well most non-mazda hitch installs are 6 bolts using existing holes in the frame. So I assume removing the Mazda hitch would be easy. Just lie down and look under the bumper, take you 30 seconds to see how much work is needed.

 

[CX9 SportOwner]

If you need 2", Replace your factory receiver with a 2" and sell the OEM for the cost of the new one.