TRAILER HITCHES

A trailer hitch, also referred to as a tow hitch, is a sturdy metal accessory that’s mounted to the frame of your vehicle that allows for your vehicle to tow a wide variety of items.

Yes. Just about any vehicle make and model could have a trailer hitch. Trailer hitch installations can be done on the smallest hatchback or on the largest types of trucks. However, if you have an older vehicle or if you have a damaged frame, you should consult with an automotive specialist before trying to install a trailer hitch.

There are 5 trailer hitch classes, Class I – Class V, starting with the lowest capacity and with Class V having the highest. Each trailer hitch class varies based on “Gross Trailer Weight” (GTW), “Trailer Tongue Weight” (TW), and receiver sizes:

• Class I – GTW: 1,000 – 2,000 lbs, TW: 100 – 200 lbs, Receiver: 1-1/4”
• Class II – GTW: 2,000 – 3,500 lbs, TW: 200 – 525 lbs, Receiver: 1-1/4”
• Class III – GTW: 3,500 – 8,000 lbs, TW: 300 – 800 lbs, Receiver: 2”
• Class IV – GTW: 5,000 – 12,000 lbs, TW: 500 – 1,200 lbs, Receiver: 2”
• Class V – GTW: 10,000 – 25,000 lbs, TW: 1,000 – 4,000 lbs, Receiver: 2”, 2-1/2” or 3”

The trailer hitch class and receiver size that you need depends on two main factors: what you want to tow and what your vehicle can handle. Contact our team of trailer hitch installations experts to get some help. We can provide accurate recommendations based on your vehicle make, model, and based on your specific towing needs.

Although there are some trailer hitch receivers that may not fit into these specific classes, most trailer hitch receivers used on vehicles today fit into one of these categories:

• Front Hitch – A receiver that attaches at the front of the vehicle for snow plows, winch mounts, and more.
• Rear Mount Hitch – This type of receiver attaches to the rear of your vehicle and is a standard receiver for pulling a trailer.
• Custom Hitch – A custom sized receiver that is specifically designed for each unique vehicle make and application.
• Bumper Hitch – A receiver that attached to the bumper and its weight capacity is limited by the bumper.
• Multi-Fit Hitch – A “universal” receiver that is designed to fit as many different vehicles as possible.
• RV Hitch – A receiver specially designed to fit onto the rear of an RV.

Some commonly purchased accessories that accompany a trailer hitch include: locks, sway bars, covers, caps, draw-bar and ball, and a weight-distributing system. Contact our team of trailer hitch installation experts to learn more about other accessories to get for your trailer hitch!