Patent ID: 7077417

Claim:
A connecting device for connecting an accessory to a hitch receiver, the hitch receiver having an outward end defining an opening, the connecting device comprising: a base with a body portion receivable in the hitch receiver, the body portion being adapted for coupling with the hitch receiver to locate the base in a predetermined position therein; a collar for engaging the outward end of the hitch receiver in an interference fit upon engagement of the collar with the outward end, the collar being coupled wit the accessory; a fastener operatively connected with the base for urging the collar against the outward end to cause the collar to engage the outward end; the connecting device being adapted to connect the accessory to the hitch receiver upon engagement of the collar with the outward end of the hitch receiver; the base including a threaded bolt portion extending from the body portion such that at least a part of the threaded bolt portion projects beyond the outward end of the hitch receiver when the body portion is coupled to the hitch receiver; and the fastener comprising a nut threadably engageable with the bolt portion for urging the collar against the outward end of the hitch receiver when the nut is moved inwardly on the bolt portion, to engage the collar with the outward end in an interference fit, and for loosening the collar when the nut is moved outwardly on the bolt portion, to disengage the collar from the outward end, the connecting device being in an assembled state when the nut is on the bolt portion and the collar is disengaged from the outward end.