Trailer Hitch for 1998 Chevy C/K 1500 to Tow a 7,000 Pound Trailer

Question:

This is the Class 3 hitch you recommended for use on my 1998 Chevy C1500 w/ 2 WD. I will be pulling a 7 x 16 enclosed cargo trailer with a GWVR of 7,000 lbs. I just want to confirm this hitch is heavy duty enough for that load or do I need to step up to a Class 4 hitch? Also since this is my first time installing a hitch, are there any other things I should take into consideration?

asked by: Bob N

Expert Reply:

Yes, Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 37130 will have the capacity for a trailer weighing 7,000 pounds. This hitch maxes out at 7,000 pounds without weight distribution so you might consider a higher capacity hitch.

Curt trailer hitch # C14081 is a great option. It is only a few dollars more than the Class III hitch and it has a 10,000 pound gross trailer weight capacity. Be sure to consult the truck owners manual to make sure it too can tow the 7,000 pound trailer.

Installation is fairly straight forward. I have included a link to the instructions and another link to a video showing the hitch being installed on a 1998 C/K series like yours. I have also included a link to our help article on hitch installation tips.

Since you plan on doing some towing I recommend etrailer ball mount kit # EBMK2416. It comes with a ball mount with a 3 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 2 inch ball, 2-5/16 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

And to add a 4-Way trailer connector you can use # 118315.