I added this bumper-guard step, after my new car got rear-ended ("People, put down your cell phones, and JUST DRIVE ! "). I had just installed a hitch (for a bike rack, at times), so figured I'd add something to the hitch, that might add some 'protection'. I decided to add this bumper guard, hitch step. It doubles as a step, making it easier reach the roof. Handy, when it comes to SUV's.
I looked at several models. This one had slightly raised traction stubs/bars, on BOTH the top and bottom sides (some others, only had it on one side) , allowing you to flip it to whichever side you want up. Flipping it, will raise/lower the top height about 1.5". You can also attach a recovery tow strap, if you ever need to.
This thing is STOUT. It weighs about 15 lbs. Installing it, took a little force. It was super tight, going into a U-Haul type hitch (Draw-tite). I sprayed the end with silicone spray, and that helped. Some folks have said theirs fit too loose. With all the hitch brands out there, the 'fit' of this item is going to vary. It's to be expected, as hitch measurement tolerances are going to vary. So use some duck tape or shims, etc., or some lubricant spray ... to take care of it being too loose or too tight. Add a hitch tightener, if it helps. All, are cheap solutions.
I chose this one, because it looked better ... as it's more rounded on the corners, less pointy. It already looks a bit ... 'unique', so I was looking for something that didn't look too weird. This fits the bill.
I added some red tape strips around the outside edges, with a zip-tie to keep the tape from getting thrashed, at the car wash. I added a hitch pin lock, and a hitch tightener (tons of both, sold on Amazon). If a tank hit this thing, it would tear off the hitch, before loosening this hitch step. I mounted it to a dual hitch mount, which allows me to attach a trailer, or cargo basket down below (after removing my bumper-guard, first), and a bike rack up above. I added a chromed Skull hitch cover (and another hitch lock), to keep the upper hole covered, when not in use.
Some reviewers complained of early rust. I have none. Even after several months of heavy rain. I'll spray it with a Rustoleum type paint, if/when it shows rust.
Try this bumper guard hitch step, you'll like it ! It might take a few days for the overall appearance to grow on you, but then you'll realize how unique/cool it looks. And big-city folks ... this will keep other drivers off your rear bumper, when they're 'attempting' to park.
| Manufacturer | TGL |
|---|---|
| Brand | TGL |
| Item Weight | 15 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 11 x 15 x 2 inches |
| Item model number | TGL-HTCSTP2 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Manufacturer Part Number | TGL-HTCSTP2 |
