{"id":363,"date":"2022-05-05T20:11:27","date_gmt":"2022-05-05T20:11:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.countryblacksmithtrailers.com\/blog\/?p=363"},"modified":"2022-05-05T20:33:08","modified_gmt":"2022-05-05T20:33:08","slug":"about-trailer-hitches","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.countryblacksmithtrailers.com\/blog\/2022\/05\/05\/about-trailer-hitches\/","title":{"rendered":"Trailer Hitches: What You Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to towing a trailer, one of the most important things needed is a hitch. Without it, of course, you can\u2019t haul a trailer. Having the proper trailer hitch is crucial. This includes the correct type, strength, and hitch ball size. There are a lot of great hitches out there that can do the job, however. We\u2019ll dive into the types of hitches and important features of each.<\/p>\n

What is a Trailer Hitch?<\/h2>\n

A trailer hitch or tow bar is an accessory that attaches to your vehicle\u2019s frame or chassis to allow the safe connection and towing of a trailer behind a vehicle. The only part of the hitch that may be visibly seen is the square shaped receiver tube, which the ball mount slides into. It is common to see the ball mount and trailer ball collectively referred to as a hitch as well.<\/p>\n

\"Close<\/p>\n

Bumper Pull vs. Gooseneck Trailer Hitches<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Bumper Pull Hitches <\/strong><\/h4>\n

Bumper pull hitches<\/a> are easier to hook up, and can be used with any vehicle. They\u2019re ideal for first-time trailer buyers and those with pickups who desire truck beds clear of the gooseneck hardware. An open truck bed without the gooseneck hitch and trailer tongue increases your payload capacity without going over your GVWR. However, bumper pull hitches have limitations on the weight and size of the trailers and cargo they can haul. Additionally, there is more trailer sway with bumper pull hitches if they are not hooked up properly or if cargo is unbalanced. Lastly, there is a limited turning radius with bumper towing, so turns must be wider around corners.<\/p>\n

Gooseneck Hitches <\/strong><\/h4>\n

Gooseneck hitches<\/a> provide amazing stability because the weight is placed over the rear axles of the truck compared to the bumper. This also gives gooseneck hitches the ability to tow larger trailers and heavier cargo. Additional benefits include improved maneuverability and a tighter turn radius. This means turns can be sharper than a bumper pull. The main disadvantages with pulling longer and heavier trailers with goosenecks is that you need a heavy-duty truck. You may also need a Commercial Driver\u2019s License (CDL). However, CDLs depend on the length of the trailer and the state you\u2019re are driving in.<\/p>\n

\"Enclosed<\/p>\n

What is the Strongest Trailer Hitch?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Overall, trailer hitch strength breaks down into 5 classes<\/a>. Gross Tow Weight (GTW) increments from 2,000 pounds all the way to 20,000 pounds. However, even if a hitch is in a particular class, it could be rated differently depending on the model and manufacturer.<\/p>\n