How to Determine the Hitch Class Size on a 2004 Subaru Forester for use with a Hitch Adapter
Question:
I have a 2004 Forester Suburu. We want to order a Hitch Adapter to go from 1-1/4 to 2. How do I find out whether we need to order a class I or II? We can see the tongue weight on the hitch is 240. Does this mean with an adapter I can only carry 120 lbs?
asked by: Julie
Expert Reply:
The easiest way to determine if you have a Class I or Class II OEM hitch, would be to contact a Subaru dealer or check your owners manual. If that does not work out, you will need to check out the hitch opening itself to see if there is a stop stamped into the hitch behind the hitch pin hole.
If you have a Class I hitc,h there will be a stop designed into the opening, approximately 1-9/16 inches behind the center of the hitch pin hole, that will not allow a Class II accessory to line up with the hitch pin hole in the receiver. If you have a Class I hitch you will need to use the Hitch Adapter 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver, item # HTAD. This adapter can be used in Class II receivers also.
If you have a Class II hitch there will not be a stop designed into the receiver opening. For a Class II hitch you could use the Hitch Adapter 1-1/4 inch to 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver (Class II Only).
I have posted photos, to the right. of these items with dimensions added for your convenience. I have also posted links to videos and informational articles that should help.
Keep in mind that, with the use of any adapter the tongue weight capacity of the hitch or vehicle, whichever is lowest, will be reduced by 50%, so if your hitch is rated at 240 pounds Max tongue weight, and your vehicle is not rated lower than that, you will need to keep all items installed in the hitch receiver under 120 pounds for safety.
Products Referenced in This Question
Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver
- Hitch Adapters
- Hitch Expander
- Bike Racks
- Cargo Carriers
- Hitch Mounted Accessories
- 7-1/4 Inch Extension
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- 1-1/4 Inch to 2 Inch
- Brophy
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver (Class II Only)
- Hitch Adapters
- Hitch Expander
- Bike Racks
- Cargo Carriers
- Hitch Mounted Accessories
- 6 Inch Extension
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- 1-1/4 Inch to 2 Inch
- Tow Ready
more information >
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