Hitch - What are the loops for? Next to the 2 inch opening, and found sometimes on the sides of the connection

Question

I want to install an aftermarket hitch, but the one I like has the bars that go further in, under the car. However I don't like the loops that the connection has, astetics. I'm not sure if I can saw them off, or if they serve a purpose, like to hold onto wiring (which I won't have because its only for a bike), or if its to loop a chain/lock. Let me know if you know something.

Answer 1

I believe you are talking about the holes to hook the chain to,if you aren't going to pull anything then yes you can remove them.

Answer 2

Loops are for safety chains on the trailer you must have them

Answer 3

There for safety chains when towing. You can cut them off but you can't tow a trailer later with out a place to hook the chains

Answer 4

I'm pretty sure that those hoops are there so that you can latch the back up chains to to the hitch.  It is a safety thing - just in case the main hitch isn't secure and falls off when you hit a bump, the chains provide a backup to keep the trailer from smashing into cars behind you.

There may be some legal requirement for having them and, even if there isn't a legal issue, you would probably be opening yourself up to a large lawsuit if you remove those safety items.