Reese Hitch 30160 operating handle, looking for alternative

[762namwobvram20]

Searched unsuccessfully for this issue, would appreciate pointer to thread if one exists. If not would appreciate input.

Have 2016 Ram 3500 long bed, installed Retrax bed cover. Have Reese 30160 hitch but have to flip hitch operating handle over as it sticks up too high to close bed cover. This is awkward to reach, pull when unhitching.

Wondering if others have dealt with this, if alternate handle is available.

Thanks
Marv

[762namwobvram20]

Thanks for all the input. Ended up flipping the handle back and using a bungee cord to tilt the front end of the skid plate down and get the handle clear of the tonneau cover. Also like the tire step idea and may get one of those too.

Thanks again.

Marv

[shadows4]

rhagfo wrote:
Yep hack off the handle for more than one reason.

X2 I copied this mod from rhagfo. My handle was hitting my tonno cover too. Just remove handle, cut at first bend, then redrill the hole. Works for me (us)!!! LOL

[capehank]

We use a bungie cord. Works great.

[Cummins12V98]

Why not just get one of these and save the headaches with the handle completely out of the way, new truck deserves a new hitch. Sell the old one on CL.



This is just a SUGGESTION.

[joegray]

I use a coat hanger bent to fit in the bed rail and the other loops over the handle. Holds the handle below the level of the cover. Very high tech.

[capehank]

We secure the handle down when we put our tonneau cover over the bed of the truck.

[azjeffh]

,,,

[magic43]

I shortened and re-positioned mine. Works great.

[762namwobvram20]

Here's photo of my hitch with handle flipped. Bolted on so not so easy to lower or shorten.



Appreciate all the replies, advice, and suggestions.

Marv

[Dave_and_Sue]

Try this tire step.Bought one for our dually.Works just fine and makes grabbing the handle easy and keeps you from scratching the fender.

http://www.amazon.com/Heininger-4040-HitchMate-TireStep/dp/B0002Z9KE0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459471144&sr=8-1&keywords=tire+step

[DHCamper]

I have a 30142 Reese Elite hitch. I turned the handle upside down and it works just fine. That might work if your handle is the same design.

[bpounds]

korbe wrote:
When I hitch up, I watch the handle pop back to let me know the claws have closed. For that reason, I prefer the handle in the up position.

+1

One of the things I like about the Reese. I can watch the lever travel out as the pin forces the jaws open, and watch it snap back as the jaws close.

I can still see that easily in my rearview mirror, with the handle modified.

[rhagfo]

Yep hack off the handle for more than one reason.

[korbe]

When I hitch up, I watch the handle pop back to let me know the claws have closed. For that reason, I prefer the handle in the up position.