vdubgruven

I know it is a sin to put a tow hitch on such a beautiful car, but since the rear seat do not fold down, and I don't want to mess with a roof or trunk bicycle rack...the only option left seems to be the tow hitch route. Has anyone installed a hitch with the A-Spec body panels? I'm sure that it will clear, but it would be nice to know if someone else has attempted this before me.

If you have sucessfully attempted this before, I would like to know what type of hitch you bought and where? Did it require you to drill 2 holes in the floor of the trunk?

Lastly, any thoughts to the MB's out there on the Gary Fisher HiFi Plus? Any recommendations around the same price range?

vdubgruven

Afternoon bump....I can't be the first A-Spec owner that would like to use a hitch mounted bike rack, could I?

lembowski

iTrader: (1)

the tow hitches I've seen for the TL kindabow down then up kinda making a slight "U" type shape. it should have enough clearance

vdubgruven

Thanks lembowski... I just hate to order the hitch online just to find out it won't fit without modifications.

subinf

I'm too lazy to search for a rear bumper aspec pic. How much extra does the kit add to the bottom of the stock bumper? Does my question even make sense?

chfields

Have you considered the rack that attaches to the trunk?

vdubgruven

I don't have a rear picture of a normal TL, but here is an ok picture of the rear of my car. I'm not really sure how much more it hangs down, if any at all. Can you compare this picture to your car and tell?

http://pages.hosting.domaindirect.co...rear_aspec.jpg

As I stated in my earlier post, I do not want a roof or trunk mounted rack since I don't want to damage the paint. I don't car how much rubber or foam those racks might have, it would will leave rub marks even if the car has fine dust before installing.

vdubgruven

What happen to my post count??? I know I've made posted more messages than 7....Ok it's been a while since I've been on the site, but now I've been reset to a noob!

subinf

I'd guess that the aspec hangs down a little lower and will probably be pushed up a little (is it flexible at all?) by the hitch when it is tightened down. Trunk drilled hitches in general usually require some trimming of parts in order to make sure the receiver is free and clear of everything.

vdubgruven

I'd prefer not to mod the kit, especially pusing on it. I've already had the dealer replace the rear diffuser once because it didn't fit tightly against the bumper.

I think I will just have to order the hitch and try it. If it doesn't work, I could always resell the hitch.

Thanks to everyone that responded...