Trailer Hitch Receiver Extension - Increasing The Towing Capacity

The trailer hitch receiver extension is essentially used to match a trailer hitch ball mount with a shank size that does not match the size of the receiver tube. It is important to remember that the trailer hitch receiver extension does not increase the towing capacity of your car, truck or SUV.

Pickup trucks and heavy motor vehicles with trailer hitches have a wide range of uses like hauling boats, campers, cargo trailers and a number of other heavy items. There are several types of trailer hitches. Most truck hitches are what is known as a ball trailer hitch. There are other types of trailer hitches too like gooseneck trailer hitches and fifth wheel hitches.

The benefit of a trailer hitch receiver extension is actually the extra leverage imparted to the hitch. When using an adaptor, it is wise not to exceed 50% (1/2) of the hitch manufacturer's suggested maximum tongue weight capacity for the hitch. Most extensions allow you to use your existing hitch accessory in either a 2" or a 1 1/4" receiver hitch to convert any 1 1/4" to a 2" receiver, increasing flexibility in your towing process.

The versatility offered by the trailer hitch receiver extension not only allows your truck to tow oversized cargo, but also hook up an RV, car or motorcycle trailer in a matter of minutes.