Important Things To Think About Before You Shop For A Trailer Hitch
Posted on: 6 June 2016
Being able to tow a trailer behind your vehicle is an exciting process, but before you can hook up a trailer with some recreational vehicles, building supplies or anything else, you'll need to find the right trailer hitch. Buying a trailer hitch isn't difficult, but it's important to think about a few key factors before you begin to shop so that you'll be happy with your purchase. It's ideal to shop at a reputable supply store, where you can speak to a knowledgeable salesperson who can help to pair you with the right hitch. Here are some things to think about before you begin to shop.
There Are Different Classes Of Hitches
While all hitches might look alike to the casual observer, hitches are rated according to their class. You'll typically encounter Class 1 hitches through Class 5 hitches, although the latter are customarily for pickup trucks with specialty hitch setups. The higher the number, the greater the towing capacity. Because of the different types of hitches and different price points, it's important to think about what you plan to tow — and also how much weight your vehicle can realistically carry behind it. For example, if you have a standard-sized car and you're simply looking for a hitch to mount a bike rack, rather than tow something, a Class 1 hitch is perfectly suitable for you. If you're a boater who wishes to tow a boat to the lake on weekends, a Class 3 or 4 hitch, based on the size of the boat, will suffice.
Hidden Versus Non-Hidden
You'll also have the choice between a hidden hitch and a traditional hitch that sticks out behind your vehicle. You can often decide which model is best for you by considering the look of your vehicle. For many people who drive cars and small SUVs, a hidden hitch is preferable because it doesn't take away from the look of the vehicle. If you drive a large truck or large SUV, however, you might not have a problem with a non-hidden hitch — after all, large hitches tend to fit right in with these vehicles.
Multi-Ball Hitches
If you expect that you'll be towing a wide range of weights, it's smart to invest in a multi-ball hitch. This style of hitch often has three balls on three sides, rather than just a single ball. By removing a pin assembly, you can rotate the mount to use a larger or smaller ball, making this type of hitch equally ideal for carrying a small trailer or a large one.
Keep these tips in mind while looking at trailer hitches for sale, and don't be afraid to ask a sales associate for more advice about your particular vehicle.
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