Understanding Your Trailer Hitches

By Author: Maina Karoki
Total Articles: 7
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It’s no secret that choosing the right hitch for your vehicle can be a daunting task. But with a systematic approach you can go a long way into solving this task. Knowledge about the amount of weight to be towed as well as the weight a vehicle can tow needs to be the first approach on your list. Once you have accurately identified these two weights, you need to take the next step which is identifying the type of hitch ideal for your vehicle.

Below are the most common types of hitches available in the market:

Bolt on trailer - If you want to enjoy a journey where you can transport cargo, save on fuel and have your passengers enjoy the ride then this is the trailer hitch for you. The trailer is configured in a way that your cargo is connected behind your vehicle and extends your vehicle’s carrying capacity. The passenger space is preserved hence your passengers get to enjoy a journey free of clutter.

Fifth wheel hitch – It carries heavier cargo that trailer hitches such as a Bolt on trailer cannot handle. The fifth wheel hitch has the advantage in that unlike the bolt on trailer, its front edge projects ...
... beyond the truck’s rear bumper to its bed. This creates more cargo space and can be classified as one of the larger trailers available.

Goose neck hitch – If you own huge amount of cargo such as farm produce then the type of hitch you should be looking for is a Goose neck hitch. The Goose neck hitch will comfortably carry cargo that weighs about 30,000 pounds and will still allow you to drive through those tight corners with no problems. It is also merited for its strength compared to other class V hitches.

Pintle hitch – Like the Goose neck hitch, the Pintle hitch can haul cargo the size of farm products and heavier cargo such as industrial products. To make it work it is gets fitted to a hook by a tow ring and can then pull an unpowered vehicle or trailer. The Pintle hitch is suited for trailers such as: travel trailers, mobile homes or recreational vehicles.

Custom trailer hitch – If you are looking to have a customized hitch that is suited for your vehicle, this hitch is your best choice. Your vehicle’s model, make and year of manufacturer are considered when designing the hitch. When fitted below the rear bumper of your vehicle it gives that unique aesthetic appearance that you desire.

Round Tube Hitch - The round tube hitch is an example of a customized hitch that is made according to the model, make and year of your vehicle. Like the Custom trailer hitch, it works to complement the look of your vehicle for which it is specifically made for. When fitted it is conspicuously visible from the rear bumper of your vehicle.

Receiver Style Hitch - This is the hitch to acquire if you intend to work with insert hitch platforms such as draw bars, a bike rack or ball mount. It is also important to have the knowledge of the accurate measurement of your vehicle’s Gross Tongue Weight and the Gross Trailer Weight if you decide to buy this hitch.A case should never occur where you are towing more than your vehicle’s or hitches’ rating.

Part of getting high performance and longevity for your vehicle is buying hitches of quality and from a reputed brand. Brands such as Draw Tite Hitches have been in the business for more than 60 years and have built their reputation from quality products. Choosing to buy from a brand like Draw Tite Hitches gives you an assurance of the absolute quality that you deserve.