Recommended Trailer Hitch to Use with Cargo Carrier on 2004 Thor Travel Trailer
Question:
I have a 4inch hollow steel bumper welded to the frame of my 04 Thor Citation travel trailer. I want to put a 3inch receiver for a 2inch frame of a cargo carrier on it to haul my generator weighing less than 250 lbs. What do you recommend? Thanks
asked by: CJ S
Helpful Expert Reply:
For the heavier tongue weight that your generator will provide I recommend going with a trailer hitch that mounts to the frame of your 2004 Thor Travel Trailer and not its bumper. Most likely the hollow steel bumper on your trailer does not have the capacity needed to safely support the generator and carrier.
I recommend taking a look at the Curt Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver # 13703. This Class III hitch will work on box frames, C-channel frames, or I-beam frames that are 22 inches to 72 inches wide. It can either be bolted to the frame using the included hardware or welded on for a no-drill application. It will provide you with a 2 inch receiver opening for your cargo carrier and it has a 350 pound tongue weight capacity. Just note that Curt does require that a stabilizing strap # 18050 be used for additional support with hitch-mounted accessories like the cargo carrier.
I have attached a sample installation video that you can use for reference.
If you are still looking for a cargo carrier I recommend one that features a fixed (non-folding) design. Hitch-mounted accessories that are mounted at the rear of a trailer will experience much more bounce and movement when compared to those at the rear of a standard passenger vehicle. A folding hinge represents a weak point on the carrier so going with one like the Reese # 63153 that has a fixed shank will be your best bet. I have attached a video demonstration on this carrier along with a link that will take you to our available selection of fixed cargo carriers that you can look through.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Tie Down Straps
- CURT
more information >
24x60 Reese Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - Steel - 500 lbs
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Flat Carrier
- Fixed Carrier
- 24 Inch Wide
- Heavy Duty
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 60 Inch Long
- Class III
- Class IV
- Steel
- Reese
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs, 22" to 72" Wide
- RV and Camper Hitch
- Frame Mount Hitch
- 22 - 72 Inch Wide Frame
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Bolt-On
- Weld-On
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Will the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Fit a 2022 Volvo XC90 Recharge
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Typical Trailer Suspension Hanger Spacing Relative to Leaf Spring Size
- Article: How to Charge a Trailer Battery While Driving: 3 Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
- Q&A: How To Connect A Dometic 310 RV Toilet To A Supply Line That's Too Far Away
- Q&A: Best Upgrade for Dometic 310 Part-Timer RV Toilet
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Replacement Hub Needed for Lippert 122093 Hub on 5,200 lbs Axle
- Q&A: Replacement Lift Motor for Fantastic Vent in 2002 Teton 5th-Wheel Trailer
- Q&A: How To Activate 12V Trailer Charge Circuit On 2019 Ford Super Duty With Factory 7-Way
- Article: 2023 Best Gifts for Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Article: How Harvest Hosts Is Becoming the New Standard of the Camping Industry
- Article: How to Replace or Install an RV Roof Vent