bikes and mirrors

   1.  I want  to try using a dual hitch extension and put a bike rack between the Pilot and the RPod.

Has anyone tried that or had experience with that?

2.  Any suggestions for mirror extensions for the Pilot?

3.Leveling equipment:  wood or the plastic leggo type?

 

My previous experience has been with a fifth wheel and a small motor home, so this is a new adventure for me...lookin forward to it.

Bugsonthego.

Bugsonthego

 

The reason why is due to dynamic load and leverage.  A 300 pound hitch weight might go up to 600+ pounds going down the road as it bounces up and down (it will go below 300 pounds on the way up, more than 300 as it comes down).  Let's say your ball is 6 inches away from the hitch socket.  After applying the extension it is now 12 inches away.  Your static load at a stop light will be the same, still 300 pounds.  But now it can apply twice the leverage bouncing down the road so 600+ pounds becomes 1200+ pounds.  Your entire hitch assembly ends up on the road and you watch your pod pass you because the emergency break-away isn't triggered (unless you attach it directly to your vehicle and not the hitch assembly).   

 

Oops, forgot to add the weight of the bikes, extension and bike rack - they all get added to your hitch weight too.

 

I agree about the mirror extensions....you won't need them.

 

I use the plastic levelers (Lynx) and have been very happy with them.  Most all of my camping is in developed campgrounds and I have not had a problem with them sinking in.  I do use (about) a 16" scrap piece of treated 4X4 to put under the tongue jack and it has also worked well.

 

As mentioned, the plastic levelers are light, easy to store and easy to clean. 

1. Can't help you with "1".

2. Even though I really don't need them, I like them.  (a)Making a left had turn in a gas station keeps the tire in view when the standard mirror is "blind".   (b)When backing that little bit of mirror extension really helps. (c) "I" think I have a been view of vehicles coming up behind me.  (I just gotta be different).  I suggest you buy a set try them out, if you don't like or need them take them back.

3. I love my leggo blocks.  I use two and a cover for each stabilizer, less to crank even with a drill. However I bought one of those cones for the foot in front and it didn't make it though the first trip. Back to my 6x6x12 block of wood. 

Happy Camping

Lee