Hitch rust prevention

[renau001]

I've never worried about this before, but I thought I might this time on a new vehicle. I have a hitch mount bike rack that will stay in my receiver more often than not. Is there a good way to prevent rust? WD-40, thin layer of multipurpose grease, or something else? Or should I just not worry about it?

 

[Runn4est]

I've never worried about this before, but I thought I might this time on a new vehicle. I have a hitch mount bike rack that will stay in my receiver more often than not. Is there a good way to prevent rust? WD-40, thin layer of multipurpose grease, or something else? Or should I just not worry about it?

I use fluid film on the hitch and on the frame.

 

[Blitzkrieg]

I've never worried about this before, but I thought I might this time on a new vehicle. I have a hitch mount bike rack that will stay in my receiver more often than not. Is there a good way to prevent rust? WD-40, thin layer of multipurpose grease, or something else? Or should I just not worry about it?

It's actually not an insignificant worry.

Here in Colorado they use this shit called Mag Chloride on the state highways and it you have ANY exposed metal, it will rust, and rust fast.

WD-40 is great stuff for certain applications but not this. I recommend you go with a heavier-bodied waterproof grease on the parts, remove and clean them (grease attracts dirt) on a fairly scheduled basis and call it a day.

But I do share your concerns. I've seen stuff on 1 year old vehicles here that did not get attention in the winter and it ain't good.

 

[renau001]

I use fluid film on the hitch and on the frame.

I've seen fluid film mentioned a few different times now. Had never heard of it, but starting to think I need to look into getting some.

It's actually not an insignificant worry.

Here in Colorado they use this shit called Mag Chloride on the state highways and it you have ANY exposed metal, it will rust, and rust fast.

WD-40 is great stuff for certain applications but not this. I recommend you go with a heavier-bodied waterproof grease on the parts, remove and clean them (grease attracts dirt) on a fairly scheduled basis and call it a day.

But I do share your concerns. I've seen stuff on 1 year old vehicles here that did not get attention in the winter and it ain't good.

Luckily, I'm in south Alabama so only thing I have to worry about is rain. But even still, if a few cents of a product and a few minutes of time every once in a while can prevent any issues 10-15 years down the road, I'll do it. Thanks.

 

[Antman]

I smear the inside of mine with marine trailer wheel bearing grease. Easy/works great.:nod:

 

[barryhiram]

Anti-seize works well too