I just put the hitch on our clubman on saturday. For those looking at doing it here is my experience. Started at 1:56

cover off at 2:16

Bumber of 2:36

When taking the bumber off there are 4 nuts that are hard to get at from the underside

when i was putting it all back togather I discovered that if you open the doors there are access holes for them in the bumber

The hitch goes between the body and the bumber the holes did not quite line up so I had to do a little dremel work

After getting all that done it was pretty easy to finish hitch and bumper back on at 3:47

cover back on a ready to go at 4:19


Doors still open with the bike rack on


Only took 2.5 hours and one beer to get it done. Would have been about 30-45 less if I had not had the issue with the bolts not lining up.

 

Where does your rear license plate go?


Dave

 

I wonder the same thing.

 

Great write up, where did you get the hitch, what was the cost, and I know know one has asked this, but where did you put your plate?

Thanks again,

Larry

 

The plate goes in the bottom holes when using the hitch when not in use put the plate in the normal spot and the hitch totaly hidden.

 

325 shipped at http://www.minidomore.com/mini_coope...iler_hitch.php
we got this little fold up trailer so now we can carry more stuff that a full size suv.

Sits against the wall when not is use

 

I just can not get past the having to move the license plate when ever you need to use it. But that is just my problem.

 

only takes 30 seconds with a drill

 

SaltnPeppa - great little trailer. Where (and how much $$) did you get that? Very ingenious design, when you need to store it.

 

I though the tough part would be removing the bumper cover -- not a problem though?

Does the hitch set-up look like it will pull 1,500 pounds?

I actually have a light race car (900 lbs) and single axle trailer 450 lbs that would sure look sweet tagging along behind my Clubbie :-)

 

Where did you get the trailer? I've never seen a folding one.

 

Trailer might be this one:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=42709

 

you are correct. I got on sale for 219 but normal price is 249. They also have it at http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/w...6493_200356493
but it cost a lot more.

 

The cover was pretty easy only 8 fasteners only the 2 that are under the black fender trim being anything more than just a normal screw. The set up seems very strong to me. It has been certified to 200/1400 so I would guess 1500 would work fine.

 

The hitch may pull it, but I'd worry more about having to stop the whole package - maybe 'lectric brakes on the trailer?

 

SNP,

Can't see from your photos whether you have mudflaps. Apparently, I will have to remove mine to get the bumper cover off - they are double-sided-tape-attached, so would be "sawing" the tape with dental floss or fine wire...

 

Great write-up, Thanks!

 

No mud flaps on ours but I would think then will need to come off since there are 2 screws in back of the wheel well and you have to pull the wheel arches off to get a 2 of the screws.

 

Well I'm familiar with going easy on the brakes -- engine braking is a wonderful thing... and yes, I do match revs as I downshift so as not to take it up in the clutch.

Did I miss the bit where you wire up the trailer lights? Is there another kit?

 

Yes that is another project for another weekend. I have to figure how to get at the wires.

 

Looks like some industrious soul needs to invent a spring loaded Lic plate holder like on the old Mustangs, or something that slides down on a channel.

I'll be needing one of these shortly to haul the Harley around.

 

very cool~

 

Like this?
http://www.gcustoms.com/catview/cate..._Plate_Bracket

 

I just love instant gratifiction.

Now I have no excuses :-)

Dave

 

good find I think we would need the Flip Up and Out Design so that the plate can still be seen. But I can't tell from the pictures if it would come out enough the clear the bumber. I think a sliding design would work better for the clubman.