Feb 12, 2013
aaron.s Hi All!
Just got my Model S back yesterday from my friends body shop. Had the front (and entire hood) wrapped and also had my Torklift Central Eco Hitch installed and attached my Saris Freedom and loaded 1 of my bikes on to see how everything worked & looked.
I took some pictures for you.... I just love this solution much more than getting a roof rack and putting my bikes up top.
Hitch mounting end removed - clean invisible look:
Here's what the end of the hitch looks like:
Hitch end bolted on:
Saris Freedom Rack attached:
1 Bike Mounted on rack (room for 2):
Aaron�
Feb 12, 2013
nrcooled Looks great. Do you have any pics of the underside? I would love to see the pickup points for the mount.�
Feb 12, 2013
palmer_md Here is a video of the installation on another car. It shows how it is mounted fairly clearly.
�
Feb 12, 2013
aaron.s nrcooled, All -
Here's an additional pic of the underside of the car with the hitch mounting point:
Aaron�
Feb 12, 2013
JohnQ Would be interested in knowing the range penalty at some point. Tough to measure scientifically but if you're up for providing a ballpark based on experience that would be great.�
Feb 12, 2013
aaron.s John
Won't be starting biking until early spring, but will definitely plan on taking a known route with and without the bike rack & bikes attached!
In the summer I'll be going up to Provincetown and will want to know range penalty!
Aaron�
Feb 12, 2013
Musterion In another thread on the same hitch,
Model S - Hitch discussion - Page 12,
it was mentioned that a possible rear-collision sensor (for airbag deployment?) was removed in order to install the hitch. In the movie you can see it being removed (round black ring with wiring in center of bumper) but not replaced (nor does it look like it could go back where it came from). Do you know what happened to this sensor in your installation, since this has possible safety implications?�
Feb 13, 2013
StephRob Fantastic Aaron! Thanks so much for the pics and the info. Have you asked Tesla at all as to how installing the hitch may or may not affect the warranty?�
Feb 13, 2013
aaron.s Musterion
They cut that out in the video. It gets placed in the same place but on the hitch once its installed... They did that for mine as well.
Aaron
- - - Updated - - -
StephRob
Actually - I didn't! But I did have the discussion of having it installed when I was at the Queens Service Center getting my car inspected and detailed and my DS and a couple of others there didn't say anything... I know its not official, but I'm fairly sure it shouldn't cause a problem....
Aaron�
Feb 14, 2013
zdre Did they have to cut out a hole in the buttom of the bumper cover?�
Apr 7, 2013
Enadler Aaron - Now that you have lived with the hitch for a little while do you still recommend it? Does it require a body shop to install?�
Apr 7, 2013
aaron.s Enadler
I am *just* about to start biking again now the the temperature has risen. Actually went up to Beacon, NY to hike today. Next weekend I start biking again and will let you know how it works out...
Meanwhile, I haven't had any problems with the car itself with the hitch installed....
Aaron
PS - the hole cut in the bottom of the car is on the covering of the undercarriage, not the bumper...�
Apr 7, 2013
Enadler Thanks. Just one more thing. Do you need a body shop to install it?�
Apr 7, 2013
aaron.s Enadler
Yes - that is what Torklift recommends and is what I did... I have a client that owns a body shop in Brooklyn and had him do it as well as do a full wrap of the front end of my car...
Aaron�
Apr 7, 2013
Enadler ok thanks�
Apr 7, 2013
Leland I completed this upgrade about three weeks ago. It took me three hours to complete the job. The instructions Torquelift provide are pretty good. The most nerve wracking park is drilling the two 4" holes in the bottom of the rear bumper cover.
Uploaded with ImageShack.us
This hole looks huge, however you pretty much need to go this big to fit your hand up there to tighten the bolt that secures the receiver.
This is the Thule 990xt Doubletrack bike rack. I've done two 80 mile trip so far with no issues and no noticeable effect on range.�
![[?IMG]](http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/29/bumperu.jpg/)
Apr 7, 2013
efxjim Have installed the hitch and it is not very difficult to do if you have good automotive skills and a few tools. Hauls a couple of bikes no problem. Is a little loose in the for aft direction even if very tight so bikes rock forward and backward a little bit. Worth doing if you have the need.�
Jul 18, 2013
rsusi Interested in doing the install myself, have worked on cars before and have a good collection of automotive tools. The on line video starts after the black bumper is removed and doesn't show it's removal or reinstall. How difficult was that portion?�
Jul 18, 2013
Zack.A Great. I'd like that hitch too.�
Jul 27, 2013
Discoducky I'm wondering the same thing. Video just shows the easy stuff as the bumper seems to be most difficult and risky portion. Any insight here would be helpful. Play by play with pics would be ideal.�
Jul 28, 2013
Klaus I recommend getting the installation instructions emailed from tlcentral. There are tons of details about removing the plastic bumper and covers below. Hat seems to be the harder part.�
Jul 28, 2013
aaron.s All -
My "Bike to Work" day...
Sometimes when I have clients to visit in Manhattan, I'll drive down to 158th Street on the Hudson River where there's a free parking lot. Bike down the NYC Greenway to the upper west or east side to my appointments. After I'm done, I typically do some loops in Central Park and then bike back to the car and drive home!
Thank You Torklift Central for making the Model S EcoHitch!
Aaron
�
Jul 28, 2013
vfx You need to update your footer.�
Jul 29, 2013
JohnQ Just curious, you get to meet clients in a T-shirt and shorts? Didn't see a bag for a change of clothes.
Thanks for teaching me about the free lot ... may need to take advantage of that.�
Jul 29, 2013
aaron.s John
I was wearing a white nylon underarmour short sleeve shirt and cargo shorts. Had a backpack with cycling shorts and shoes (and misc. computer related items - I'm an independent IT Tech). Changed before doing my loops in Central Park. I only do this when visiting long time clients with whom I have a good relationship... They don't mind at all :smile:
The lot is great (2 lots actually)... Never busy weekdays but on weekends, get there by 10am or so before it fills up!
Aaron
PS - Do you have an EcoHitch installed on your Model S?
�
Aug 31, 2013
PeterK I got my Eco-hitch installed by the Tesla Service Center in Watertown a week ago, Immediately mounted my new Thule Apex 4-bike rack, and the next day took our daughters for a bike ride at Deer Island Park. It worked well, and I love that it helps make a statement that the Model S is an everyday, highly versatile, car - not a "toy for the rich" or a "golf cart". A great addition to a great car.
I also got the Undercover unit to cover the underbody hole when the hitch is not in use. Will install it when winter is near and we're done biking for the year.
That brings up a point. I got the 1-1/4" hitch but was thinking that if I needed a 2" hitch in future it might be possible to buy just the external part - haven't asked the company nor did I see it sold separately on the website but it would make sense.
�
Aug 31, 2013
dirkhh I'm curious as this is something I considered as well. What was the total cost?�
Aug 31, 2013
aaron.s Looks GREAT Peter! Looking forward to getting the Thule Apex as well and replacing the Saris rack I had gotten... Thanks for the pictures!
Aaron�
Aug 31, 2013
PeterK Hitch is $349.95. Undercover is $69.95, Apex 4 lists for $399 but can be found for $319 on sale at REI and others, and Watertown charged 1 hour @ $175 for the installation, which seemed reasonable.�
Aug 31, 2013
PeterK Thanks, Aaron. One more note: there's no need for the heavier and more expensive swing away model - the trunk door clears the Apex rack with room to spare when opening. You do need to watch that it doesn't hit the first bike's handlebar however. Mine can if the wheel is turned too far.�
Aug 31, 2013
Morristhecat I was thinking of getting this ecohitch, but was worried about the maximum tongue weight of 200lbs, since 4 bikes and my old hitch rack might be pushing the limit. Seeing these pix is encouraging. Thanks for posting. When fully loaded with 4 bikes does it still feel quite sturdy??�
Aug 31, 2013
aaron.s Thanks for that tip Peter... Was thinking it could and wasn't planning on getting the swing away model. Also thanks for the tip on it being on sale at REI for $319! Cheapest I saw before was on Amazon for about $354!
Aaron�
Aug 31, 2013
PeterK I had an old Thule swing away with 2" mount that weighed twice the new Apex. I gave it to my sister because I don't want to put that much weight on the Ecohitch. I only had three bikes loaded but it felt fine. The hitch was rock solid and the rack sturdy. But there's a little play in the Apex's tilt-down latch (to allow for opening a tailgate, but you're not supposed to tilt it when loaded with bikes). So when I hit a big bump, I could sometimes hear the rack shifting back and forth within that play. Not a problem however.
I missed this sale because I bought the rack a few weeks ago. If you're an REI member you get a 10% annual rebate, so you would effectively get another $32 off the $319.99�
Sep 14, 2013
neo1700 I purchased the hitch, and am now looking for someone to install it. Does anyone have a cost estimate, and possibly a recommendation for a body shop in the Dayton-Columbus-Cincinnati Ohio area?�
Oct 4, 2013
Torklift Central We appreciate all of the feedback about the EcoHitch from Torklift Central. If you have any questions about the hitch, please refer all questions to [email�protected] for a quick and detailed response.
In honor of National Plug in Day 2013 Torklift Central is offering $25 off their hitches.
For more information you can visit torkliftcentral.com/pluginday2013
Shipping is free to the lower 48 states to help reduce cost.
Use promo code: Pluginday2013
Expires October 5th 2013�
Oct 11, 2013
Klaus Here is my update - finally!
Got the Torklift 1.25" EcoHitch installed at Chilton's Auto Body in San Carlos. They took essentially a whole day (not sure why, I had to call several times to make sure I could still pick up the car before they closed.) They charged $400. More than I was hoping for but I had little choice given that Menlo Park and Fremont SC declined to do it.
This was right in time for a trip to wine country - Healdsburg, Santa Rosa and Sonoma.
We always take the bikes along and do one day of biking from winery to winery, this time for the first time with the Tesla.
I had bought a Thule Apex 9025 a while ago at REI during one of their sales, 20% off. It worked fine for the 3 bikes we took.
The Tesla range took a major hit with the bikes on the back. My prior average was 318 Wh/mi. Freeway driving at about 65 mph used about 400 Wh/mi, and slower driving on highways and in the city about 380 Wh/mi. In the beginning at 70 mph + on I-280 I started out at > 450 Wh/mi, and I didn't keep that speed very long realizing that I wouldn't make the distance to our hotel at that rate. I forgot to set a trip meter and don't have precise numbers, but the energy use is at least 1/3 more with bikes and rack.
The rack sits long and low, and I scraped bottom 3 times (slowly!) entering and exiting a parking lot in Sonoma where we charged on a ChargePoint J1772. It's essentially mandatory to use the Very High suspension setting any time there is a curb of any height. Even the hitch without the bike rack has hit bottom on very deep curb ditches coming out of a parking lot, so I'll take off the receiver as soon as I get a chance. The bike rack swings up and down quite a bit, which is probably mostly due to the lean-back latch that is not rock solid, but the hitch itself seems to flex a bit too.
Hope this helps someone. Now I just need to get an "Undercover" before the rainy season starts here ... Waiting to get over the shipping sticker shock for this item
�
Jan 14, 2014
4SUPER9 Finally got my Ecohitch installed today. I was referred by the Tesla SC in West L.A. to a Ferrari shop right near them. Apparently, they do a majority of the body work for this particular Tesla SC.
A few Teslas were there, along with a few Masarati's and a lot of Farrari's. Some were actual race cars.
They were prompt, professional and very friendly. Took them 3 hours and charged me $315. Not bad really. Initially, I was going to do it myself, then figured it would take me at least twice as long, and probably accompanied by a bunch of cursing. If anyone in the L.A. region is looking for someone to do this, give either John or Lucas a call at:
Ferrari Beverly Hills Collision Center
2110 Cotner Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025
(888) 869-3865�
Feb 5, 2014
ELTRICK Thanks for posting this 4SUPER9
�
Feb 5, 2014
4SUPER9 Yes. They cut out a perfectly sized hole. That must be done in order to insert the hitch and bolt it on. My advise is to keep the hitch off when not in use, for the very reasons you mentioned. I keep a ratchet socket wrench with the hitch so that I can put it on/off whenever I want. To keep water and dirt out, I also bought the hole cover from Torklift. This is a plate that covers the hole perfectly and snaps right on with a magnet. There is only a finger notch in the plate so that you can pull it off when needed. I can't imagine too much dirt will get it.
Even without the cover plate, I am confident that there will be no perceptible affect on drag.�
Feb 10, 2014
Cosmacelf Anyone used one of this hitches (or any other hitch) to haul a dirt bike? About 210 lbs combined weight including the carrier.�
Feb 10, 2014
4SUPER9 I'm interested in knowing this too. I have only seen bike carriers so far. Given the weight of a couple of bikes on a rack, I would think that a carrier on wheels should be fairly easy, being that there's no torque involved.�
Feb 10, 2014
Cosmacelf I sent in an email to Torklift and they said 200 lbs maximum tongue weight, so no motorcycle racks. They also said the hitch could pull 2000 lbs, but that Tesla doesn't recommend any trailers.
So, anyone have experienced pulling trailers with the Model S?�
Feb 10, 2014
palmer_md Well, there is this...
2,410-Mile Trailer-Towing Trip - Virginia to Palm Beach Back, Added Pictures | Forums | Tesla Motors
and this...
Gas 2 | What is the future of fuel? Whats next? Since 2007, Gas 2 has covered a rapidly changing world coming to terms with its oil addiction.�
Mar 16, 2014
Alysashley79 Can anyone with the hitch installed weigh in on how it's holding up ie: the under panel. I know the installer cuts a hole in the underside to install the actual hitch and while it's on there's a pretty good side hole there. Has anyone had any problems with rusting or debris getting inside that could hurt the car? I spoke with the installer at torklift central here in washington over the weekend and he said it could he couldn't confirm one way or another. He said it's purely just cosmetic but then said it does leave a pretty good size hole but didn't know where the hole fed to. Anyone know?�
Mar 16, 2014
4SUPER9 Good questions. I think the only way I could tell what is happening in there, is to remove the bumper. Going by the video, there really isn't anything inside there to worry about. Then again, I'm in drought plagued So. Cal. You are in a much wetter climate.
Now, I personally keep the hitch removed, with the cover plate on (extra charge for this part), most of the time. The main reason is that it hits bottom on certain dips. Especially so if a rack is attached. With this cover on, I can't imagine that there is a big issue.�
Mar 16, 2014
Klaus Exactly! +1 except northern CA�
Mar 17, 2014
Brightonuk HI
Just ordered my Model S and included the parking sensor option
I have ordered and plan to install the Ecohitch and use a Thule Vertex 2 bike carrier.
The question is will the bike interfere with the operation of the parking sensors?
If not can the distance the sensors are calibrated be changed to compensate for the added bike carrier (I figure an extra 2')
Thanks�
Mar 17, 2014
4SUPER9 Yes, the bikes will definitely interfere with the sensors. There is no way to adjust them. Big annoyance.�
Mar 17, 2014
Alysashley79 I picked up an adapter at my local service center today (for charging) and after torklift telling me the plastic piece that they cut off is merely just a "vanity" piece the service center told me that the plastic piece that is cut off the bumper is actually sealing up the drive train and motor. Both of these are sealed themselves but the Eco hitch even with cover on dirt and dust can still get in there and over time could cause problems and they caution any aftermarket products to our vehicles. So bummed.�
Mar 17, 2014
Kratus On all my previous car, there was a button to disable the parking sensors. Is there not such a button on the Model S?�
Mar 21, 2014
Brightonuk As I understand they need to cut a 4" hole to gain access to bolt the hitch on to the car, once this is done why would you need to access this area again?
If that is the case why not just replace the cutout after the hitch is installed.
If they use a 4" hole saw just stick the cutout back and silicone it in place.�
Mar 21, 2014
wycolo > even with cover on dirt and dust can still get in there and over time could cause problems and they caution any aftermarket products to our vehicles. So bummed. [Alys...79]
Yes, I was *shocked* to discover pounds of gravel, dried mud and dust as I removed bottom panels, wheel liners & rear bumper cover from my MS. :biggrin:
Worry? A bit of extra ventilation back there is no problem. What *IS A PROBLEM* would be crossing running streams or ponds one might find seasonally on rural roads. Walk these yourself carefully before driving across to be sure motor/inverter and battery pack both do not get immersed.
--�
Mar 21, 2014
4SUPER9 This is a removable hitch and you need that space to access the bolt.�
Mar 26, 2014
Brightonuk Duh yes I realized that after I posted.�
Mar 26, 2014
nrcooled I did the install myself this past weekend. A little background on me is that I have worked on cars for the better part of 11 years as a hobby. With that being said I have always hated doing body work. All in all the Tesla rear end came apart very easily and the install went along without any hitches (bah dum dum). I will say that I took my time to make sure that I did everything per the instructions (which were very straight forward) and the entire install took me 6 hours (including a 30 minute trip to lowes to buy a 10mm deep socket as a replacement for one that I managed to lose during the installation process).
Everything went back together easily and the biggest issue was that the hitch receiver adapter (Aaron speaks to it and has pics of it above "Here's what the end of the hitch looks like...") didn't fit into the hitch itself
I did the install with no lift, no jacks, and by myself. With two people and a lift the installation would go a bit faster but body work is time consuming and rushing body work always leads to more pain. If I were to have to do it again I could probably shave about 2 hours off easily.
I plan to use this for towing my race motorcyle to the track. Once I do the wiring for the trailer lights I will post up range feedback when towing about 700lbs behind me (bike is 400lbs and the trailer is 300lbs)
Edit: corrected for trailer weight�
Mar 26, 2014
Cosmacelf Yipes. That's a heavy trailer. Please do let us know how it works. Do check out how well it is working after a trip or two...�
Mar 31, 2014
nrcooled Good catch. That was a typo and should read 300 lbs not 800 lbs. My post has been corrected.�
May 2, 2014
Brightonuk Try to find a reputable place to get my Eco Hitch Installed
Eco Hitch recommended one place right next to me so I had made the appointment two days ago then waited half an hour as the owner looked and looked at the car then.... "sorry just not comfortable installing the hitch".
He has been in the business for 25 years so it was not lack of experience he just felt it was too much liability working on the car.
(Tesla Dania Beach said no) so I am gonna call a couple of other Tesla locations but don't hold out much hope.
Does anyone have any recommendations anywhere in Florida as I do not mind driving:biggrin:
I would prefer someplace that has actually installed one on a Tesla but that may asking too much�
May 2, 2014
wycolo > Try to find a reputable place to get my Eco Hitch Installed [Brightonuk]
Reminder to anyone NOT to use the INSTRUCTIONS provided by EcoHitch (their PDF file). Totally out of sequence and wrong info, etc etc. You would be better off just winging it yourself, assuming you have basic skills and tools. Hey, it ain't Rocket Science.
Since the rear wheels must be off the car you can use a pair of floor jacks with solid wood inserts holding it up. Not relying on hydraulic pressure to keep car off ground.
--�
May 2, 2014
Brightonuk That's just great :cursing: cant find any body shop willing to do it now you tell me the instructions are wrong.
It may not be rocket science to you (Quantum Physics is not my bag) but I aint about to install my first hitch (and cut a huge hole) in my new $100k+ car just to see if I can do it.:scared:
I would prefer to leave it to someone who has a little more experience than me (maybe Steven Hawking has a few hours free this weekend)
Ok enough with the excessive use of emoticon's:tongue:
Starting NOW!:wink:
OK Starting....Now�
May 2, 2014
nrcooled Quick update: TorkLift sent the replacement hitch receiver very quickly and it for perfectly. Great customer service!
I will be doing my first tow this weekend about 40 miles away.�
May 3, 2014
wycolo The ONE thing that EcoHitch did get correct is their suggestion that customers get a BODY SHOP to do the install for them. Someone with decades of experience taking cars apart and putting them back together.
The photos in the EcoHitch pdf file are good, but there are 'pages missing', likewise instructions missing. My photos were intended to complete the process of installing a hitch on the MS. You will need to locate them in the threads (plural) on TMC and make up a proper blog for yourself as you plan and execute the process. If you get stuck at some point just ask here, feedback is crucial. If you find a body shop willing and able to do this work EVEN THEY will appreciate a nice set of illustrated instructions.
--�
May 3, 2014
AnOutsider So am I correct in assuming (based on what I see here and the page on their site) that this hitch is designed for carrying small things like a bike rack, and not for actually towing a trailer?�
May 3, 2014
AnOutsider I'm confused, was that in response to my question?�
May 3, 2014
nrcooled Just finished towing my motorcycle and trailer about 70 miles. All said and done, I was impressed with how much energy the car didn't use. Over the 70 miles I averaged 302 wh/mi with mixed highway and surface roads.
The car pulled strong with no issues and the hitch was very taught with no clunking or extra play. All in all it is a very good design.�
May 4, 2014
AnOutsider Thanks for that feedback. Considering getting it installed now�
May 5, 2014
wycolo > I'm confused, was that in response to my question? [An Outsider]
Sorry, most of it got left behind in my editor. :redface:
-------------- full post ------------------------
> So am I correct in assuming (based on what I see here and the page on their site) that this hitch is designed for carrying small things like a bike rack, and not for actually towing a trailer? [AnOutsider]
Hitches made for supporting/carrying also can pull/retard of course but liability issues scare small manufacturers into arbitrarily limiting their marketing to only carrying uses. Especially when the vehicle mfr prohibits or limits towing capacity. Subaru Forester limits trailering to 2k pounds and rates their hitch such, yet UHaul makes a hitch for it that they rate at 4k pounds maximum. You can guess which one I bought. Subaru is more concerned about stopping capabilities apparently. UHaul must feel that its extensive educational efforts, and its many accessories, provide a sufficiently sensible approach to the art of towing. That users who push the envelope a bit do so with awareness.
A new technology company like Tesla has no developed experience with utilitarian possibilities of their vehicles so runs screaming from the mere mention. Introducing LEGAL / LIABILITY / 'INTENDED USE' concepts into the otherwise happy universe of: 'Your MS and how it makes the world a better place', is like throwing a can of water onto a campfire (or a can of petrol). Either way the party is over.
--
-------------------- end of post -------------------
--�
May 5, 2014
Lerxt Thanks for the pics...not for the hitch but you ordered an identical car to the one I ordered!�
May 13, 2014
pl804 Just got my car back from getting the ecohitch installed - unfortunately, they cut the access opening the wrong way (it opens to the left vs. the right). Ramifications: Can't remove the hitch (b/c can't get access to the bolt head) and can't use the undercover. I'm dreading the talk with the body shop (who has installed these before) - but I fear that it's going to require replacing both underbody pieces that the opening cuts through. =(�
May 25, 2014
islandbayy Just want to chime in, I just added a 50 minute install video for the Eco hitch in the videos section. not perfect, but might take the "scary" out of installing.�
Aug 27, 2014
Newscutter Reviving this.
Couple questions:
Is the hitch for both size receivers actually the same hardware? In other words, can you just buy the other size "drop post" to use racks that need different size receivers?
With the cover on, is it visible?
Any concerns about possible corrosion between dissimilar metals with this installation? I'm not an expert or anything... just something I never thought about until I bought an aluminum car!�
Aug 27, 2014
Newscutter Geez you people are getting slow in your old age.
Received official word from Torklift:
"Thank you for contacting us about the EcoHitch for your Tesla Model S. There is no difference in installation between the 1.25� (X7202) and 2� (X7201) model Ecohitch�s. The Crosstube and mounting plates are the exact same for either/or receiver adapter. The only difference lies in the receiver adapter itself. The great thing about this hitch is that because it utilizes an adapter instead of a welded receiver, you can interchange the two sizes if you choose in the future. "�
Aug 27, 2014
ElectricAvenue Can anyone recommend a hanging bike rack vs. a wheel platform rack?
I need a 4 bike rack but not sure if I should go with a popular hanging rack or something like the Saris Freedom where the wheels sit in a cup instead of the bike hanging from the cross bars.�
Aug 27, 2014
Newscutter I don't have a specific rack recommendation (other than anything made by Thule), but here's a consideration:
A platform rack limits the angle of clearance by a fixed amount and is completely unalterable.
A hanging rack limits that angle only by the height of the outermost bike.
So, for example, if you're hauling a mixture of kids/adult bikes you would hang the adult bikes closest to the car and the kids' farther out for greater clearance.
I've also had times when I had to dismount the outermost bike on my hanging rack to make into a steep driveway-- but a platform rack would have to be completely unloaded AND removed for the same effect. Also, when going in rougher terrain with a hanging style, you can mount the bikes by using their vertical tubes instead of their top tube-- which effectively raises them up without being less secure to the rack (again, can't do that with a platform).�
Aug 29, 2014
PeterK No, its's not visible. I would definitely get the cover and remove the receiver assembly during the off-season (winter in New England) or before a long-distance drive when you won't be using the hitch (improved aerodynamics and range). Removing the receiver also improves clearance on steep driveways/curb cuts.
The cover still leaves a hole where you reach in your thumb to pull it off - it's held on by a strong magnet - but it covers most of the cut-out area. I bought a cheap ratchet handle and socket to keep with the receiver/cover, and raise the suspension to make the switch that much easier.�
Aug 29, 2014
PeterK I have the Thule Apex 4 and have been happy with it. See my posts earlier in this thread for photo and pricing.�
Sep 25, 2014
Torklift Central For anyone interested in the EcoHitch, it is $25 off until Sept 28th by using the discount code: DRIVEELECTRIC2014.�
Sep 27, 2014
JohnQ Wish I had it for the trip I just finished, sleeping in the car would have been easier with the bike on the back rather than in the hatch :smile:�
Nov 26, 2014
Torklift Central For anyone interested all EcoHitch�s are $45 off with free shipping Nov. 28 � Dec. 1st for Black Friday/Cyber Monday.�
Nov 26, 2014
AnOutsider I thought it was always free shipping, but the $45 off is enticing. That brings it down to $305�
Nov 26, 2014
PeterK How did the talk go? What was the end result?�
Nov 27, 2014
Newscutter Just saw this pop on the new posts list--- so here's my 2 cents.
The hitches are superbly built and if you have any remote inclination to haul bikes or other gear, DO TAKE this opportunity to pick one up on sale.
(and make sure you get the hole cut correctly--- so sorry for you pl804, at least it's mostly invisible)
Here's my tale of the installation with lots more pictures of how it is done: TESLA Pittsburgh.com: My Baby Gets Back: Torklift EcoHitch Review
�
Nov 27, 2014
rtz Anti-Rattle Hitch Accessories | etrailer.com�
Nov 27, 2014
Xenoilphobe Mind does the same thing - its not an anti rattle pin issue - it is the connection bolt to the hitch 2 inch receiver and I can't figure out how to stop the movement. Shims?�
Nov 27, 2014
rtz What's the other side of this look like? What does it thread into? Are the threads on the shoulder bolt shanking out?
Torklift Centrals EcoHitch for the Tesla Model S Review - TESLARATI.com�
Dec 1, 2014
Newscutter Not sure what you're referring to-- but happy to photograph if it would help someone.
I haven't had and real shaking on mine (see the video clip on the review) once weight it applied. With back unmounted it has a little movement but once fully loaded and re-tightened, all good.�
Mar 26, 2015
beeeerock A few people have made comments about possible bike rack options. I've been using one from North Shore Bike Racks that is suitable only for mountain bikes with front suspensions. The beauty of the design is it folds down easily and puts some of the weight ahead of the hitch, reducing the torque applied. I've had it on my Benz for a couple of riding seasons and will have a hitch receiver installed on my Model S when it arrives. You can hang up to four bikes with this system, although mine is a two bike rack due to the 1.25" receiver limitation on this car. You hang the bike by the fork and clip a cord around the back wheel. Loading and unloading is faster than anything else I've used.
Given the concerns about any sort of hitch on the Model S, the weight distribution of this rack system might be superior to the typical 'stack them out the back' systems.
Not the best angle to see the rack, but it gives you an idea...:
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Mar 26, 2015
Morristhecat @beeerock, that's a nice bike rack. But is it really only for mountain bikes? Kids bikes won't work? I am looking for a 4 bike rack but I only have the 1-1/4" eco hitch. I guess I could get the 2" adapter from echo hitch if necessary. Nice that they are local.�
Mar 27, 2015
PeterK Interesting rack with some good features, eg weight distribution. Also wondering if other bikes wouldn't fit. One drawback is you can't open the trunk with bikes loaded, of course. Unless there's a tilt away mechanism.�
Mar 27, 2015
beeeerock The rack hangs the bike by the wide fork of a shock system. A suspensionless bike wouldn't typically be wide enough (although a fat bike might be...). You'd have to compare a kids bike fork with an adult bike to see if there's a chance it would fit. The other consideration is whether the wheelbase is long enough (kids bike) to reach the rear tire support lower down on the rack. There is some latitude, but you'd want to keep it all firmly in place!
Their web site has some good photos and explanations if you want greater detail from the horse's mouth... they're good folks to deal with, in my experience.
- - - Updated - - -
As noted in my last reply to Morristhecat, the way the bike is gripped limits the bikes that will fit. It was designed here in BC where mountain biking and downhilling is a big deal - the rack was built with that in mind.
The rack does pivot from the hitch horizontal member. Backwards to allow the trunk to be opened, or to fit on a van or hatchback with less space for the front tires above. The quick pin release has several positions and you can go all the way down to the point where the bike tires sit on the ground.
Center of gravity is much further forward than virtually every other rack system I've seen, which really helps the hitch receiver!�
Mar 31, 2015
AlbertOnMars Greetings! The Torklift hitch looks nice, and I already have a Kuat NV rack that I've used with another car, so this would be ideal. Can anyone tell me how expensive the piece is that needs the whole cut into it?
Thanks!�
Mar 31, 2015
4SUPER9 I am not sure if I understand your question. The piece that needs cutting is the underside of the bumper. Do you mean the replacement cost of the bumper so you can restore to original condition? Pricey I bet.�
Mar 31, 2015
AlbertOnMars Ahh, I didn't realize it was the actual bumper cover--I was thinking it a separate piece behind the bumper. Well, in that case, I'm sure you're right, that would be quite expensive!�
Apr 9, 2015
DFibRL8R For those considering installation for bikes, remember to allow extra time at the Supercharger for careful backing. I found the backup cam to be of no use in this scenario. Here's a pic of me in Lumberton, NC supercharging with 5 bikes on the back. I was lucky and there were mostly open stalls on my route but if the end unit is not open, could be very tricky or have to remove the jigsaw puzzle of bikes which would not be fun. The front end pull-in chargers are nice but are not available at all locations (or could be in use). I would like to see the signs between the chargers get installed further away from the curb as a simple way to improve the challenge.
Also massive range penalty with 5 bikes at speeds beyond 45mph. My 60kWh would only do about 130 miles on a range charge driving at posted speeds on I-95. On the return trip, I actually removed some of the wheels from the bikes and stowed in the rear hatch to decrease the sail effect (it helped).�
Apr 9, 2015
AlbertOnMars Love the photo with five bikes hanging on the back!! Amusing about the Supercharger access, and thanks for the warning.�
Apr 9, 2015
DFibRL8R Yeah, I'm pretty used to getting looks in the Model S but the look percentile went up substantially with 5 bikes on the back!
I think it must blow some folk's minds that this awesome/sporty EV can also be a practical choice and not just a "toy" as I have seen some refer to it. For my family of 5, this is our minivan/SUV for road trips (in addition to a great looking/performing sedan).�
Apr 9, 2015
Morristhecat @DFibRL8R, thanks for posting that pic. I think that is one that allot of us wanted to see. Good info on the range hit too.�
Apr 9, 2015
beeeerock Is that an inch and a quarter receiver??? What rack system allows that many bikes on a small receiver? Or maybe it just looks small and it's actually a 2 inch?
It would be interesting to compare range loss with this 'across the car' method of carrying, compared to the 'wheelie' position of the Northshore Racks system I use. One is broad and low, the other tall and narrow.�
Apr 9, 2015
DFibRL8R It's the 2 inch receiver. I'm using a Thule 915XT. I was pretty amazed at the range losses but I was also hauling 5 people and a lot of stuff so some of the inefficiency was also weight gain and couldn't all be blamed on the bike-parachute on the back. The hitch itself is 38 lbs and the rack is 28 lbs.�
Jun 16, 2015
bwilliams Just thought I'd share our pic. We've been using the torklift hitch for about a year for our 2 single bikes or for the tandem. Maybe it has been said somewhere in 99 posts but beware of driveway or roadways that have steep ramps. The hitch will drag and that is a very disconcerting feeling ... Still, we are avid cyclists and need the bike rack. The camera distortion makes it look like the tandem is much wider than it is. The bike is only 8" wider than the car.
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Jun 16, 2015
Xenoilphobe I have the TorkLift 2 inch Hitch on both our P85's. I went with the Yakima Holdup 2 bike hitch x 2. It sits behind the car envelope better than the older style "hanging" racks.
http://www.rei.com/product/854828/yakima-holdup-2-bike-hitch-rack�
Jun 19, 2015
Torklift Central Thanks for posting! Glad to see you�re putting the hitch to good use : )
By any chance are you planning on attending TMC Connect this year?
TMC Connect
We are looking for a Model S owner with our EcoHitch installed to have their car displayed at our booth at the event. Would love to have your car there if you might be able to make it. Please PM us if you�re interested.�
Sep 17, 2015
zax123 @nrcooled,
I notice you have a trailer connected to your hitch, so I'm assuming you wired up the lights on it? Could you please tell me how you went about doing that? Did you just hunt for the three necessary wires (+ power) and use an isolator box?
Thanks!
Rob�
Sep 24, 2015
nrcooled Use the thread below. Wycolo saved me tons of time on the wiring. Fair warning: TM has changed the color of the wires so YMMV.
Help: Wiring a harness for a trailer�
Sep 25, 2015
zax123 Thank you! Huge help! I love that I don't need an isolator box if I replace the bulbs with LED equivalents!�
Jun 16, 2016
CUBldr97 has anyone had any push back from tesla for any warranty work since installing the hitch?
I have also heard that in a few instances the tesla service actually installed the hitch... anyone have it installed by tesla?�
Jun 16, 2016
PeterK Some SCs used to install them - Watertown MA did mine back in 2013 - but I believe none do now. I haven't had any issues with the rear end other than moisture in the reverse lights, but don't expect it to be an issue, particularly as Tesla installed it.�
Jun 16, 2016
artsci Here's my Ecohitch with my hand built carbon fiber rack (weighs about 12 pounds) and my Carbontrikes Race SL on board. The Ecohitch is a great design.
![[?IMG]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_t0m4CGt1uCjB5CjS2WKN2ANv9ieM6TaRWWSAsngMxyFUpIM7ljLZPgdFKUBUiQzd02TaiB2r6Q_5imYijL8fBFYa3-578so9QnfvH3WX0_qKSca3OH8aoQ8AHMfr67iecm2REV=s0-d)
![[?IMG]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_vkkp6Zai-1fscw_25K0fS4tDLmwMB_CXf4jIXebxHwstA49f16r8rTEMz2384SgoB7akHKqp4de4JiJfA5VPZ4gmlpyIykvPrg0C2_JJ8p1K-BbNRYssGvesyv3F-T7DVw7HENC00=s0-d)
![[?IMG]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_uJyGK5Q1HwmauYuuZor-XBHmVxkwJueALPbRHLsg-zbAmkUrNIc8dxg2EivmiUmIN78dzfsrEQc0UPYOHIMCv_n9CkW6h_lkv5ImAA62nPC7WVBz50HMCITKOMl6H2_C2ztc4=s0-d)
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Jun 16, 2016
GaryREM Awesome design.
All of these have the bikes extending significantly on either side of the car. Isn't that an issue?�
Jun 16, 2016
pl804 I haven't, but I also haven't had warranty work specifically done in that area.
However, this was one of the reasons I chose a Tesla-certified body shop to do the work.�
Jun 17, 2016
artsci Not really. It doesn't extend that far. But one does have to be a bit careful when backing into a parking space. On the road it's not a problem, Also I only use the rack for hauling the trike around locally. On long trips it goes in the car.�
Jun 17, 2016
artsci No issues with the warranty as long as it's used for bikes and the like. But hauling might be another story. My car has been serviced twice since it was installed.�
Jun 17, 2016
islandbayy Warranty can only be voided if failure is caused by towing. According to a Automotive Attorney I know, burden of Proof is upon Tesla to prove the failure was a result of towing.
Which, (and he concurs) just became more difficult. Since the Model X is factory capable of towing, uses the same basic subframe, AND motors, a claim of Drive Unit failure due to towing is a long shot, because if towing with a S causes DU Failure, then Tesla should not be rating the X for towing.�
Jun 19, 2016
beeeerock Torklift Ecohitch on my S. I had the Torklift folks in Kent WA do the install and it happened in a couple of hours, no muss, no fuss. Highly recommend! I'm so far very happy with the result and can now load the bikes onto my Northshore Racks NSR-2 system. Super-fast load and unload!
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