About the Class 2 hitch
Buyer’s Guide, Comparison and Advice
Finding the right class hitch for your trailer can be overwhelming, with so many classes to choose from how do you know which one will be the best for you? Well luckily you have come to the right place, we have everything you need to know about a class 2 hitches. Including what makes it different from the other class hitches, which will help make your decision of whether the class 2 trailer hitch is the right one for you. In this article, you will also find a list of the best class 2 hitches currently on the market.
The Basics of Class 2 Trailer Hitches
Before you decide whether the class 2 hitch is the right one for you, it is important to make sure you know exactly what it is, what it does, and what makes it different from the other hitch classes.
What is a Trailer Hitch?
A trailer hitch connects a vehicle and a trailer by providing a point to bolt onto the vehicle and attaches the trailer via the hitch receiver opening. (Basically, if you want to attach a trailer to your car you a hitch is essential.) However, there are different classes of trailer hitches including, class I hitch, class ii hitch, class iii hitch, class iv hitch, class v hitch, and 5th wheel and gooseneck hitches.
Not all hitches can tow all trailers and other items. This is why it is essential to make sure you know the specific trailer weight range and the size of the hitch receiver. This is because the main difference between each of the classes is the gross total weight, the maximum trailer tongue weight carrying capacity each has, and the size of the hitch receiver opening. The more heavy-duty hitches include class iv and class v hitches because they are weight distribution hitches.
What are the Class 2 Hitch Specifications?
The towing capacity of a class 2 hitch, known as the gross total weight this type of hitch can support, is 3500 pounds. The class 2 hitch usually has the carrying capacity of tongue weight capacity ranging from 200 to 350 pounds. While the class 2 trailer can support a higher maximum trailer tongue weight than a class 1 hitch, both hitches have a 1-1/4 inch hitch receiver opening.
Note: You can use accessories designed for a class 1 hitch on a class 2 trailer. However, you cannot use accessories intended for a class 2 hitch on a class 1 trailer. This is why it is essential to note the hitch specifications to make sure that you purchase the right one for you.
When is Class 2 Hitch Used?
The class 2 trailer hitch is most commonly used on lighter-duty trucks and passenger vehicles, including full-size pickup trucks, vans, and SUVs. The common objects that are towed using a class 2 trailer hitch include:
- Landscape trailers
- Campers trailers
- Small boat or towing boat trailers
- Snowmobile trailers
- Motorcycle trailers
- Hitch mounted cargo carrier
- Mounted bike racks
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Class 2 Trailer Hitch
Now that you have the information you need to determine if the class 2 trailer hitch is the correct one for you, all you have to do is figure out which class 2 trailer hitch you will purchase. The four factors which you should consider before buying a class 2 trailer hitch include:
Gross Trailer Weight and Maximum Trailer Tongue Weight
When looking through different class 2 hitches, the first factor that you should note is if the specific class 2 hitch can support the gross trailer weight and maximum trailer tongue weight of the item that you are planning to tow.
While all class 2 trailer hitches should have a gross trailer weight of 3,500 pounds and a maximum tongue weight of 300 pounds, there are a few that may not be able to support this weight. That is why it is essential to pay close attention to the class 2 hitches specifications before purchasing it because the last thing you want is to buy a hitch that does not have the towing capacity that you need.
Vechile Compatibility
Many class 2 trailer hitches are only compatible with certain types of vehicles and specific vehicle models. This can make it challenging to select trailer hitches because nobody wants to purchase class ii hitches that will not work fit on their vehicle. When choosing the class 2 hitch, make sure that the car you plan to tow is listed as a compatible vehicle in the class 2 hitch specifications.
Towing Compatibility
A common misunderstanding when it comes to any type of trailer hitches is that they will be able to tow whatever you need. Sadly, this is not the case and only certain trailer hitches can tow certain items. There are a few class ii hitches that can only be used to tow trailers. Whereas other class ii hitches are more versatile and can be used to tow other items including trailers, vans, trucks, and sports utility vehicles.
Durability and Quality
The durability and quality of the type of class ii hitch you purchase play a role in the lifespan of the hitch. It is important to keep in mind that trailer hitches may be exposed to rough weather. This is why certain hitches may be more expensive because of the high-quality materials used to manufacture the product.
It is also a good idea to look for a class ii hitch that is made from carbon steel rather than metal because it will be more durable. Another specification to look out for is making sure that the hitch has a powered coating, and in the product’s specifications it mentions that the hitch is weather resistant. This will ensure that you purchase a hitch that will last a bit longer.
Best Class 2 Trailer Hitches:
1. CURT 12115 Class 2 Trailer Hitch
The CURT 12115 Class 2 Trailer Hitch adds versatile towing options to your vehicle. The class 2 trailer hitch is made from carbon steel and has a dual-powered coated finish. This class 2 trailer hitch has a 1-1/4-inch receiver and can support 3,500 pounds and a maximum tongue weight of 350 pounds.
The CURT 12115 class 2 trailer hitch can tow a smaller trailer, mounted bike rack, and mounted cargo carrier. This model is suited for pickup trucks, trailers, sports-utility- vehicles, personal marine craft, and passenger cars.
Vehicle Compatibility:
- Buick Lacrosse
- Buick Regal
- Cadillac XTS
- Chevy Impala
- Chevy Malibu Limited
Pros:
- High durability is made from carbon steel and has reliable strength.
- It is pretty versatile in what it can be used to tow.
- It is compatible with a variety of vehicle models.
- This trailer hitch model has been safety-checked.
Cons:
- It does not have weight distribution compatibility.
- It may not secure tightly on all vehicle models.
- May be expensive
Final Thoughts
The CURT 12115 class 2 trailer hitch is a good option as it is versatile and compatible with many vehicle models. This product can support the standard weight of class 2 trailer hitches and is also made from high-quality materials making it quite durable.
2. Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Class 11
The Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Class ii has a sleek design that seamlessly blends your vehicle. The hitch trailer weighs 40 pounds, is made from alloy steel, and has a black powdered coat finish making it relatively durable and weather resistant. This class 2 trailer hitch is rated at 900 to 6000 pounds and can carry up to 900 to 6000 pounds with a 2-inch receiver tube opening. You can use the Draw-Tite trailer hitch class ii to tow trailers, vans, trucks, and sports utility vehicles.
Pros:
- They are manufactured using high-quality materials making this trailer hitch quite durable.
- It is weather resistant.
- It is compatible with a variety of vehicle types.
- This model has been safety tested.
Cons:
- It does not have weight distribution compatibility.
- This product does not mention exactly which vehicle models it is compatible with.
- It may be expensive.
Final Thoughts
3. Reese Towpower 06377 Class ii Insta-Hitch
The Reese Towpower 06377 Class ii Insta-Hitch has a powdered coat finish and is made from metal. According to this class ii hitch product specifications, you can use it to tow trailers. The Reese Towpower 06377 Class ii Insta-Hitch can support 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight, up to 300 lbs tongue weight carrying capacity, and has a 1-1/4-inch square receiver tube opening. This class ii hitch is compatible with sports utility vehicles and passenger cars.
Pros:
- It is relatively durable and sturdy.
- It has a clean, modern appearance.
- It is relatively easy to assemble.
Cons:
- The removable drawbar, pin, and clip will have to be purchased separately.
- It is not compatible with a wide range of vehicle models.
- It is not very versatile in terms of what it can be used to tow.
Final Thoughts
If you are only planning to tow lightweight trailers and have either a passenger vehicle or a sports utility vehicle, then the Reese Towpower 06377 Class ii Insta-Hitch is the hitch for you. However, if you plan on towing anything other than this may not be, this is not the best option.
4. CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch
The CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch is made from carbon steel, dual-coated, and has a powered coated finish. You can use this class 2 hitch to tow trailers, pickup trucks, passenger cars, sports utility vehicles, and personal marine crafts.
The CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch has a 1-1/4-inch receiver hitch. This class 2 trailer can support 3,500 gross trailer weight and 350 lbs. tongue weight.
Pros:
- It is made from high-quality materials making it relatively durable.
- It is pretty versatile and can be used for two various items.
- It is relatively easy to install.
- This product has been safety checked.
Cons:
- It is not weight distribution compatible.
- It does not include the exact vehicle models it is compatible with.
- It may be expensive.
Final Thoughts
If you are ready to tow a variety of items and plan to do this often, then the CURT 12091 Class 2 Trailer Hitch is a good option. With this class 2 hitches’ versatility and durability, it is an excellent choice for someone who is regularly towing items.
5. Draw-Tite 36501 Class II Frame Hitch
The Draw-Tite 36501 Class ii Frame Hitch has a neat look making it an excellent addition to your vehicle. You can use it to tow trailers, passenger cars, and vans. This hitch is compatible with passenger cars and sports utility vehicles. The product has a powdered coat finish and weighs 32.5 pounds. The Draw-Tite 36501 Class ii Frame Hitch can support 3,500 pounds in gross trailer weight and 300 pounds in tongue weight.
Pros:
- It has a powdered coated finish making it weather resistant
- It has a sleek appearance
- It is relatively easy to assemble and does not require any extra tools.
Cons:
- This product does not mention exactly which vehicle models it is compatible with.
- It may be expensive.
- Some customers have stated that their product did not have all the pieces needed to assemble the hitch frame.
Final Thoughts
If you live or travel to areas with heavy weather terrain, the Draw-Tite 36501 Class ii Frame Hitch may be the one for you. The product’s powered coating is best for rough weather conditions. However, this product does not list exactly which vehicle models it is compatible with, so it is essential to ensure that it will be compatible with your vehicle model before purchasing.