Hollywood Racks Instructions: A Comprehensive Guide
Hollywood Racks, established in 1973, offers diverse bike rack solutions; this guide details installation, assembly, safety, and troubleshooting for optimal use.
Hollywood Racks has been a trusted name in bicycle transportation since 1973, dedicated to crafting high-quality, innovative bike rack solutions for adventurers and everyday cyclists alike. From its humble beginnings, the company has grown into a leading manufacturer, renowned for its commitment to durability, ease of use, and vehicle protection.
Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country road trip or simply heading to a local trail, Hollywood Racks provides a secure and convenient way to bring your bikes along. Their product line encompasses a variety of rack styles, including trunk-mounted, hitch-mounted, and upright options, catering to diverse vehicle types and cycling needs.
This comprehensive guide serves as your resource for understanding, installing, and maintaining your Hollywood Rack, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey with your beloved bicycles. We will cover everything from model-specific overviews to detailed assembly instructions and essential safety precautions.
Understanding Different Hollywood Rack Models
Hollywood Racks offers a diverse range of bike racks designed to accommodate various vehicle types and cycling preferences. Key models include the SR-2, a popular trunk-mounted option known for its simplicity and affordability, and the Sport Rider SE, offering enhanced features and stability.
For those seeking a more upright transport solution, Hollywood provides upright bike racks, ideal for preserving bike geometry and minimizing stress during travel. Models like the Boomer and Prorider cater to different bike styles and quantities. Additionally, specialized racks like the Giant Revive and Buzz Rack address unique needs.
Understanding the distinctions between these models – considering factors like carrying capacity, mounting style (trunk, hitch, or upright), and specific features – is crucial for selecting the rack that best suits your vehicle and biking lifestyle. Each model has specific instructions, so always refer to the included guide.
Hollywood SR-2 Bike Rack: Overview
The Hollywood SR-2 is a trunk-mounted bike rack celebrated for its ease of use and value. Designed to carry two bicycles, it’s a popular choice for recreational cyclists. Its straightforward design features six straps – four wheel straps and two frame straps – to securely fasten bikes to the vehicle.
A key feature is its patented anti-sway control, minimizing bike movement during transit. The SR-2 incorporates soft, protective pads to prevent scratches to both the vehicle and the bicycles. Before use, always consult the fit guide to ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s trunk shape.
Remember to regularly check strap tightness and rack stability before and after mounting bikes. Proper installation and adherence to weight capacity limits (typically 30 lbs per bike) are vital for safe transport.
Hollywood Sport Rider SE Bike Rack: Features
The Hollywood Sport Rider SE is a premium trunk-mounted rack known for its robust construction and advanced features. It accommodates two bikes and boasts a user-friendly design for quick loading and unloading. Key features include adjustable support arms that conform to various frame styles, and large, soft frame pads to protect bicycle finishes.
This model incorporates a patented No-Wobble hitch system, significantly reducing bike sway during travel. The Sport Rider SE also features integrated reflectors for enhanced visibility. Assembly is relatively straightforward, involving attaching the mast and securing all bolts tightly.
Prior to use, ensure compatibility with your vehicle using the fit guide. Regularly inspect all components and straps for wear and tear. Maintaining proper strap tension is crucial for secure bike transport.
Hollywood Upright Bike Racks: Key Benefits
Hollywood’s upright bike racks offer several advantages for cyclists seeking convenient and secure transportation. Primarily, they maximize cargo space by carrying bikes vertically, minimizing obstruction of the vehicle’s rear view. This design is particularly beneficial for those with limited trunk space or needing to transport additional gear.
Upright racks generally feature adjustable wheel holders and frame supports, accommodating a wide range of bike sizes and styles. The installation process is typically simpler compared to hitch-mounted options, requiring secure strapping to the vehicle.
These racks prioritize bike protection with padded cradles and straps, preventing scratches and damage during transit. Regular maintenance, including strap tightening and component inspection, ensures long-lasting performance and safety.
Installation Process
Proper installation is crucial for safe bike transport; this involves vehicle preparation, surface cleaning, rack attachment, and secure strap fastening for stability.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Rack Installation
Before beginning the installation of your Hollywood Rack, meticulous vehicle preparation is paramount for a secure and damage-free fit. Begin by thoroughly inspecting your vehicle’s trunk or hatch. Ensure the surface is relatively flat and free from any protruding elements that could interfere with the rack’s contact points.
It’s essential to review your vehicle’s owner’s manual to identify any specific warnings or recommendations regarding the installation of external accessories. Some vehicles may have designated mounting points or limitations regarding weight distribution. Pay close attention to these guidelines to avoid potential damage to your vehicle’s finish or structural components.
Furthermore, confirm that your vehicle’s taillights and license plate remain fully visible even with the rack installed. If necessary, utilize an auxiliary lighting system to ensure compliance with local traffic regulations. A clean vehicle surface is also vital, as dirt and debris can compromise the adhesion of the rack’s pads and straps – we will cover cleaning in the next section.
Cleaning Surfaces for Optimal Adhesion
Achieving optimal adhesion between your Hollywood Rack and your vehicle is crucial for stability and safety during transport. Before attaching the rack, dedicate time to thoroughly cleaning both the contact surfaces on your vehicle and the pads on the rack itself. Use a mild detergent and water solution to remove any dirt, grime, wax, or other contaminants.
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage your vehicle’s paint or the rack’s protective coating. After washing, ensure both surfaces are completely dry before proceeding with the installation. A clean surface maximizes the contact area and allows the pads to grip securely, minimizing slippage and potential movement during travel.
Pay particular attention to areas where the rack’s straps will make contact, as these points bear the most significant load. Regularly cleaning the pads on the rack will also maintain their effectiveness over time, ensuring consistent performance and a secure hold.
Attaching the Hollywood Rack to Your Vehicle
Carefully position the Hollywood Rack onto your vehicle’s trunk or hatch, ensuring it’s centered and aligned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The rack’s arms should rest securely on the vehicle’s surface, distributing the weight evenly. Begin by loosely attaching the straps – do not fully tighten them yet. This allows for adjustments and ensures proper alignment before securing the rack.
Double-check that the rack isn’t interfering with any taillights, license plates, or other essential vehicle features. Refer to the fit guide to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle model. Once positioned correctly, start tightening the straps gradually, alternating between sides to maintain even pressure. Avoid over-tightening, which could potentially damage your vehicle’s paint or the rack itself.
Consistent and even strap tension is vital for a secure and stable fit.
Securing the Rack with Straps
Proper strap security is paramount for safe bike transport. After initial attachment, systematically tighten each strap, ensuring a snug fit against the vehicle. Alternate between straps – left, then right, then the lower straps – to distribute pressure evenly and prevent misalignment. Avoid over-tightening, which can damage your vehicle’s finish or the rack itself.
Inspect the strap buckles and ensure they are securely fastened and locked. Tug firmly on each strap to confirm it’s holding tight. Pay close attention to the strap contact points; they should be flat and stable against the vehicle’s surface. Always tighten straps both before and after mounting bikes to maintain stability.
Regularly check strap tension during your journey, especially after the first few miles, and readjust as needed. Remember, secure straps are the primary defense against rack movement and potential accidents.
Assembly Instructions
Hollywood Rack assembly requires careful attention to detail; follow these steps to correctly assemble your rack, ensuring all components align for safe and reliable use.
Assembling the Hollywood Sport Rider SE
Assembling the Hollywood Sport Rider SE bike rack begins with unpacking all components and verifying their presence against the parts list. Begin by attaching the mast to the base using the provided bolts and washers, ensuring a snug but not overly tight fit initially. Next, carefully slide the support arms onto the mast, aligning the holes for the securing pins.
Pay close attention to the orientation of the support arms; they should curve outwards to accommodate the bikes. Once the arms are in place, insert the pins to lock them securely. Before fully tightening the mast bolts, check that the support arms move freely and are level. Finally, tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque, using a wrench or socket set. A complete assembly video is available at eTrailerTV and a full transcript can be found here.
Attaching the Mast and Support Arms
Attaching the mast to the Hollywood rack base is a crucial step. Slide the mast into the designated receiver, ensuring it’s fully seated. Secure it using the provided bolts, washers, and nuts. Don’t fully tighten these initially, as adjustments may be needed later. Next, carefully position the support arms onto the mast, aligning the pre-drilled holes.
Insert the securing pins through the aligned holes, confirming they click into place on both sides. Verify the support arms move smoothly and are level before proceeding. It’s vital to ensure correct orientation – the arms should curve outwards to comfortably hold the bicycles. Refer to the assembly video on eTrailerTV for a visual guide and the transcript here for detailed instructions.
Tightening All Bolts and Connections
Once the mast and support arms are correctly positioned, it’s time to tighten all bolts and connections securely. Begin with the mast-to-base bolts, using the appropriate wrench to achieve a firm hold. Then, focus on the support arm attachment points, ensuring the pins are fully engaged and any accompanying bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Double-check all connections, applying consistent pressure to avoid over-tightening, which could damage the components. Remember to periodically re-tighten these bolts, especially after initial use and during regular maintenance. Cleaning the surfaces of the pads on the rack and trunk prior to installation is essential. Always tighten straps before and after mounting bikes for optimal security, as highlighted in available resources.
Safety and Maintenance
Hollywood Racks require adherence to weight limits and bike compatibility guidelines; regular inspection of components and strap tightness is crucial for safe transport.
Weight Capacity and Bike Compatibility
Hollywood Racks are engineered with specific weight capacities to ensure safe operation and prevent damage to your vehicle or the rack itself. Always consult your rack’s documentation to determine the maximum weight it can carry, typically ranging from 35 to 80 pounds depending on the model – the SR-2 and Sport Rider SE have differing limits.
Beyond total weight, consider individual bike weight. Exceeding the capacity compromises stability and control during travel. Furthermore, bike compatibility is vital. Most Hollywood Racks accommodate a wide range of frame styles, but certain designs – like step-through frames or those with fenders – may require adapters or careful positioning.
Before each use, verify that your bikes fall within the specified weight and frame size parameters; The fit guide, often included with the rack, provides detailed information on compatible bike types. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to rack failure, vehicle damage, or, most importantly, a safety hazard on the road.
Checking Fit Guide Before Use
Prior to every journey with your Hollywood Rack, meticulously reviewing the fit guide is paramount for a secure and trouble-free experience. The guide, typically found with your rack’s documentation or online, details specific vehicle compatibility information, ensuring proper rack placement and avoiding potential damage.
It outlines crucial clearance requirements – the space needed between the rack and your vehicle’s lights, license plate, and trunk lid. Incorrect positioning can obscure visibility or cause operational issues. The guide also specifies suitable mounting points and potential interference with vehicle features like spoilers or rear cameras.
Hollywood emphasizes that the fit guide isn’t a one-time check; vehicle modifications or changes in bike setup necessitate re-evaluation. Always confirm a snug, stable fit before driving, and remember that adherence to the guide is a cornerstone of safe bike transport.
Tightening Straps Before and After Mounting Bikes
Hollywood Racks consistently stresses the critical importance of strap tension for secure bike transport. Before loading any bicycles, thoroughly tighten all straps connecting the rack to your vehicle. This initial tightening establishes a stable base, minimizing movement during the mounting process.
Once bikes are positioned on the rack, re-tighten the straps – both those securing the rack to the vehicle and those holding the bikes themselves. Bikes shift during travel, and this re-adjustment compensates for any settling or vibration. Ensure straps are snug but not overly tight, avoiding damage to your vehicle or bikes.
Regularly check strap tension during your trip, especially after the first few miles and at each stop. Hollywood recommends this proactive approach to prevent loosening and maintain a safe, secure load throughout your journey.
Regular Inspection of Rack Components
Hollywood Racks emphasizes proactive maintenance for longevity and safety. Regularly inspect all rack components – mast, support arms, straps, and attachment points – before, during, and after each use. Look for signs of wear, tear, or damage, including fraying straps, bent metal, or loose bolts.
Pay close attention to the areas where the rack contacts your vehicle. Check for scratches or wear that could compromise the finish. Inspect the rubber pads for deterioration, replacing them if necessary to prevent damage. A visual inspection should also include verifying the integrity of all welds and connections.
Address any issues immediately. Tighten loose bolts, replace damaged straps, and repair or replace any compromised components. Consistent inspection ensures your Hollywood rack remains a reliable and safe transportation solution.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Hollywood Rack problems like attachment difficulties, slipping straps, or bike wobble are addressable; inspect connections, tighten straps, and verify bike compatibility for solutions.
Difficulty Attaching the Rack
Facing challenges securing your Hollywood Rack? Several factors can contribute to attachment issues. First, ensure the vehicle’s surface is thoroughly cleaned – dirt and grime significantly impede adhesion. Utilize a suitable cleaning agent to remove any residue before proceeding with installation.
Secondly, double-check compatibility. Refer to the Hollywood Rack fit guide to confirm your vehicle is listed as compatible with the specific rack model. Incorrect fit can lead to instability and difficulty attaching the rack securely.
If the straps aren’t gripping effectively, inspect them for wear and tear. Damaged straps may lack the necessary friction. Finally, ensure the rack’s mounting hardware is correctly aligned with your vehicle’s designated attachment points. A slight misalignment can create significant resistance. If problems persist, consult the full installation video available on etrailer.com for visual guidance.
Straps Slipping or Loosening
Experiencing strap slippage or loosening with your Hollywood Rack? This is a common concern, but easily addressed. The most crucial step is ensuring straps are tightened before and after mounting bikes. Initial tightening establishes a secure base, while post-bike tightening compensates for any settling.
Inspect the strap surfaces for cleanliness. Dirt or debris reduces friction, causing slippage. Clean both the straps and the vehicle’s surface where they make contact. Also, verify the straps aren’t stretched or damaged; worn straps lose their tensioning ability.
Avoid overloading the rack. Exceeding the weight capacity puts excessive strain on the straps. Finally, periodically check strap tension during your journey, especially after hitting bumps or uneven road surfaces. Consistent monitoring prevents loosening and ensures safe transport. Remember to never place more than the recommended weight on the rack.
Bike Wobbling During Transport
Is your bike exhibiting wobble while being transported on your Hollywood Rack? This indicates insufficient stabilization. First, double-check that all straps are securely tightened – both those securing the bike frame to the rack and those anchoring the wheels. Ensure the bike frame is making firm contact with the rack’s support arms.
Consider using frame protectors or padding where the bike contacts the rack to minimize movement. Verify the bike’s tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires can contribute to instability. Also, ensure the bike is centered on the rack to distribute weight evenly.
For longer journeys, periodically check strap tightness. Road vibrations can cause loosening. If wobble persists, reduce your speed and consider stopping to re-secure the bike. A stable bike equals a safer journey!
Addressing Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion can compromise your Hollywood Rack’s integrity over time. Regular preventative maintenance is crucial. After each use, especially in climates with road salt or coastal air, thoroughly rinse the rack with fresh water. Pay close attention to joints, bolts, and areas where paint may be chipped;
Dry the rack completely with a clean cloth. Periodically apply a rust inhibitor or protectant spray to exposed metal surfaces. Inspect all bolts and hardware for signs of corrosion; replace any that are significantly rusted. Avoid storing the rack in damp environments.
For existing rust, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove loose flakes, then apply a rust converter before painting with a suitable automotive paint. Consistent care will significantly extend your rack’s lifespan.