When you have a truck with towing potential, it seems you called upon whenever someone is moving, when someone’s kids need a trailer pulled for camp, and of course, you want to be able to use to pull your own trailer, boat, camper, etc. But, are you truly utilizing the hitch on your vehicle to its full potential?
Determining Towing Capacity for Your Vehicle
Surprisingly, perhaps to some, is that there is more to choosing towing accessories than one might believe. So, if you plan on investing in a trailer hitch then take some time to determine what type you need and why it will benefit you. After all, with multiples classes of hitches as well as those designed for specific types of vehicle designs, knowing what type of towing accessories and hitches to purchase can save you time and money. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Class 1 – This is designed for towing items that weigh between 2,000 LBs GTW (Gross trailer Weight) to 200 LBs TW (Trailer Tongue Weight). It is suitable for sub compact and compact cars, mid-size cars, pickups, SUVs and mini vans, and full-size cars, pickups, SUVs, and vans.
2. Class 2 – Designed for 3,500 LBs GTW to 300 LBs TW and can be used with mid-size cars, pickups, SUVs and mini vans, and full-size cars, pickups, SUVs, and vans.
3. Class 3 – This type of tow hitch will work for items weighing from 5,000 LBs GTW to 500 LBs TW and are best utilized with midsize pickups, SUVs and mini vans, and full-size cars, pickups, SUVs, and vans.
4. Class 4 – Crafted for use in vehicles that weigh between 9,000 LBs GTW to 900 LBs TW and should only be used with full size cars, pickups, SUVs and vans.
As a final not regarding towing accessories and hitches, it is recommended that when choosing a trailer hitch that it should match your vehicle’s towing capacity. While you may not need the extra capacity at the time of purchase, you never know when you will need a hitch that is equipped to handle the extra weight.
If “purchase a towing accessory or hitch” is on you Want To Do List, then be sure to make an informed decision rather a making an uniformed decision. Talk to a local dealership or auto parts distributer, as well as others who have already made the same purchase, and learn what your options are. Then, get ready to have fun and get work done with ease. Before you know, you will be ready for all sorts of towing adventures.