Towing and hauling any type of load is a serious job that requires meticulous attention, preparation, and knowledge. If you are new to towing and intend on hauling a boat, vehicle, or trailer, read on to learn the first few steps to take when in the market for a tow hitch for your truck.
Tips on Choosing the Right Tow Hitch
The first step to taken when in the market for a new tow hitch, it to expect to purchase one larger than you think you’ll actually need. This gives DIY towers an advantage down the road if they find themselves towing larger hauls after a few seasons of experience. Having the larger hitch avoids having to purchase a new one for every type of tow. If you decide to buy a larger trailer or family sixed camper, you’ll already be set with a hitch that can handle the load.
If it is a trailer you are towing, the next area to keep in mind when it comes to hitches is weight ratio. Check out your trailers factory manual that it comes with; in the manual should be the actual weight of the camper without cargo. After you find the true weight of the trailer, add on the weight you’ll be hauling to get an accurate assessment of how much weight will be towed. This calculation will allow you to know which hitch suits your tow best. For example, if a person is hauling a trailer that weighs less than 2,000 pounds, and the tongue weight, (the downward force that the front part of the trailer applies to the hitch), is under 200 pounds, then you would only need to purchase a Class I Hitch for safe towing. The tongue weight is also identified within the trailer’s manual.