Trailer Hitch Class & Capacity Comparison - etrailer.com

http://www.etrailer.com/tv-helpful_hints_trailer_hitch_classes.aspx

Videos are provided as a guide only. Refer to manufacturer
installation instructions and specs for complete information.
Today we're going to cover a common question, what does class I, II, and III mean and what does it mean to my vehicle. We're going to go through them all and show you what the differences are, some are subtle and some are rather apparent. Basically, we'll make it easier for you. We're going to start off with this example here which is a class I hitch. Class I means this hitch is good for trailers up to 2000 pounds. What we're going to show you over here is the sticker which shows the different weights and capacities involved. We'll show you what those mean. As you can see by the sticker here, we're going to show you some notes on it, these stickers will apply to any class hitch that you come across. Once you figure out what this means, you're home free. Starting here at max gross trailer weight which shows 2000 pounds.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• trailer
• hitch
• installation
• class
• II
• III
• draw-tite
• drawtite
• draw
• tite
• hidden
• valley
• curt
• reese
• etrailer.com

[stewartx5]

Does how length of the drawbar (ball mount), after it extends out of the receiver, impact either safety or stability with a larger, heavier, trailer?

The drawbar purchased (included) with my class IV hitch places the ball roughly six inches out from the receiver while another just purchased places the ball roughly two inches out. Both are out far enough to allow the trailer tongue to clear the vehicle during normal turns.

[etrailertv]

@stewartx5 Ball mounts come in a variety of lenghts, ranging from under 7 inches to over 16 inches. As long as the ball mounts you are using are not hitch extenders and have the proper weight capactiy for your hitch and load, they are safe to use. One the other hand, if a hitch extender is used to extend the lenght of the towing setup, the towing capacity and tongue weight of the hitch would be cut in half. From the information you've provided, I'd say your safe to use either ball mount.

[iloveboats1]

well the uhaul hitches are way different