The trailer towing industry has developed a classification system that differentiates
towing hitches according to the amount of weight they can tow. This system addresses
tongue weight and total weight. Keep in mind that within each classification
are numerous towing hitches made by a variety of manufacturers.
The three most common types of trailer hitches are the weight-carrying hitch,
the weight-distributing (or load equalizer) hitch, and the fifth-wheel
hitch, or the gooseneck. Weight-carrying hitches are designed to carry all
of the trailer’s tongue weight. Weight-distributing hitches are used
with a receiver hitch and special parts that distribute the tongue weight
among all tow vehicle and trailer axles. Fifth-wheel hitches are designed
for mounting the trailer connection point in the middle of the truck bed.
When purchasing a trailer towing hitch, use the recommendations of the manufacturer
of the tow vehicle and trailers. Towing hitches are to be purchased on the basis of the type and weight of the trailer.
Make sure the towing hitch has provisions for the connection of safety chains,
which are required by most states. When connected, safety chains should have
some slack to permit sharp turns but should not drag on the road. In addition,
they should cross under the trailer tongue to help prevent the tongue from
dropping to the road in the event the trailer separates from the tow vehicle.
Let's see what are the different classes of the towing hitches:
Receiver Hitches |
|
Class I |
Class II |
Class III |
Class IV |
Gross Trailer Weight 2000lbs |
Gross Trailer Weight 500lbs |
Gross Trailer Weight 5000lbs |
Gross Trailer Weight 12000lbs |
Tongue Weight 200 |
Tongue Weight 300 |
Tongue Weight 500 |
Tongue Weight 1200 |
|
GooseNeck and Fifth Wheel Hitches |
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Buy only for pick ups up to 25,000 lbs with 6, 250 lbs |
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Trailer Hitch Components |
|
 Ball Mount
Hitch Balls
Sway Controls
Coupler Locks
Ball Mounts |
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Class III Ball mounts are selected not only with gross trailer weight in mind, but also trailer height. The more level the trailer, the easier it is to pull. Information is available to aid in selecting the correct ball mount.
Compute the Difference between the Hitch Height and the Coupler Height. If the Hitch Height is greater than the Coupler Height, the difference is the drop that is required. If the Coupler Height is greater, the difference is the rise that is required. The Ball mount with the rise or drop closest to the difference should then be chosen.
Class I and Class II Bal mounts are specific for each vehicle and are recommended by the hitch manufacturer. To find to find a ball mount for a Class I or II hitch, or to find a hitch for your vehicle, use the hitch finder. |
Hitch Balls |
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Always make sure the ball's weight rating is greater than the gross trailer weight rating. As for the hole diameter, it must be less than 1/16" greater than the ball shank diameter. When tightening, always use the lock washer and make sure a portion of the ball shank extends past the bottom the nut. |
Sway Controls |
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Available in two different styles, sway controls reduce the effects of wind gusts and sudden maneuvering by applying resistance to the trailer and vehicle with respect to each other. Aside for trailers with a large surface area, such as enclosed or travel trailers, sway controls are also used on trailers with a low tongue weight percentage. |
Coupler Locks |
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Buy Quick and convenient deadbolt lock for trailer coupler. Guards trailer on or off hitch. Works with most coupler styles. Covered key slot prevents theft. Bolt is 3/8" Diameter. |
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