Trailer Hitch Receivers

Trailer hitch receivers are exactly that: The first part of the hitch package that we install onto the tow vehicle before inserting the actual hitch into it. But receivers are not all created equal, they come in varying shapes and sizes depending on the class of hitch they will be receiving.

The class of the hitch that you decide to use depends primarily on the towing capacity of your vehicle. You will want the weight that you will be towing to be well within this capacity to ensure safety at all times. Consult your owner's manual to determine how much weight your vehicle can comfortably tow.

If your vehicle has a lightweight towing capacity you will need little more than a light-duty tow package. These are called Class 1 hitches and their capacity is limited to no more than 2,000lbs. The receiver that fits this tow hitch is a narrow one with a standard one and a quarter inch opening.

Vehicles with a higher towing capacity commonly use a Class 2 hitch that is a heavier construction but still uses a standard one and a quarter inch receiver. Class 2 hitches can carry loads of up to 3.500lbs.

Class 3 hitches are the most common style and this is what you see on most SUVs, trucks, vans and RVs. This class of hitch typically requires a more substantial receiver that is two inches in diameter. Class 3 hitches have a weight capacity of up to 5,000lbs in weight.

Trailer hitch receivers differ in style as well as dimension, the most significant difference being between the light duty and heavy duty ones that require more extensive attachments in order to tow heavy loads safely. Receiver extenders and adapters can be purchased to extend and adapt receiver size to work with different classes of hitches and load capacities.