Just like the vehicles they’re attached to, tow hitches come in all shapes and sizes. Understanding the differences between these hitches will help you choose the one that fits your needs best. The following are some of the varieties available in today’s market.

Which Hitch Is Right for You?

Before you head to a supply store, there are a few pieces of information to know first. A supplier will need to know the year, make, and model of your vehicle. This is crucial since trailer hitches are vehicle specific. A hitch for a sedan will not fit on an SUV. 

You will then be asked the amount of weight you need to tow. This will be the weight of the trailer plus the weight of the items you will be putting in the trailer. This is needed to figure out which hitch will be best for your needs. There are many classes of trailer hitches and not every class hitch works with every vehicle. 

Never tow a trailer with a gross trailer weight greater than the vehicle manufacturer's rating. It can damage the vehicle's engine transmission and frame and void any manufacturer's warranties. A higher class of hitch DOES NOT increase the vehicle's tow capacity.

Types of Tow Hitches

1. Class I

These have rates up to 2,000 pounds with a tongue weight up to 200 pounds. They have a 1-¼ inch square receiver opening. This type of hitch is good for compact and smaller vehicles.

2. Class II

Class II has rates up to 3,500 pounds with a tongue weight up to 350 pounds. They also have a 1-¼ inch square receiver opening. This type of hitch is good for mid-size sedans and smaller CUV’s.

3. Class III

A class III has rates up to 8,000 pounds with a tongue weight up to 800 pounds. They have a 2-inch square receiver opening. This type of hitch is good for CUVs, SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks.

4. Class IV

These are the same as Class III hitches but with a higher weight capacity. They are rated up to 8,000 pounds with a tongue weight up to 800 pounds, but when used with a weight distribution hitch, they are rated up to 12,000 pounds, with a tongue weight up to 1,200 pounds. They also have a 2-inch square receiver opening. This type of hitch is good for full-sized SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks.

5. Class V

They have the highest weight capacity: rated up to 18,000 pounds with a tongue weight up to 1,800 pounds. These types of hitches are good for full-sized vans and heavy-duty pickup trucks. 

Class V hitches with a 2-inch square receiver opening are rated up to 15,000 pounds, but when used with a weight distribution hitch, they are rated up to 16,000 pounds.

Class V hitches with a 2-½ inch square receiver opening are rated up to 18,000 pounds. These type of hitches are good for full-sized vans and heavy-duty pickup trucks.

 

If you need a tow hitch, Brad’s Trailer Supply in Rochester, NY, will help you locate the perfect model for your needs. Since 1954, the business has helped countless customers with their trailer needs. From light-weight class I hitches to heavy-duty class V ones, the shop’s knowledgeable crew will make sure you drive away with the right hitch for your work. Visit their website for more information on the services and products available or call (585) 458-4498 to speak with a representative today.