Using a Hitch Extender on a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab

Question:

Hi, I really like the looks and description of your heavy duty Blue Ox 12 inch trailer hitch extension. I can find none others that have such a good capacity. However, I may need an 18 inch extension, rather than a 12. Does Blue OX have one that is longer than 12? Do they also have a heavy duty 6inch extension so that I could use both in tandem? I could have a good local welder weld them together too for added strength. Also, where can I find the hitch capacity for my 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 crew cab, 6 ft. 5 inch bed? My local dealer did not know! Thanks much.

asked by: Charlie O

Helpful Expert Reply:

Adapters and extenders like the 14-inch Curt # 45795, the 7-inch Brophy # HE06 and those from Blue Ox do make it convenient to gain clearance in some applications but they also have the unavoidable negative side-effect of reducing your hitch's capacity by as much as 50-percent. Adapters also introduce the chance for more random motion and rattle in a towing system.

It is never a good idea to use multiple extenders - even if welded together - as these items would not have been designed to work with each other, would have an unknown capacity and the welding process could introduce weakness in the steel. We do offer an 18-inch hitch extender from Curt, part # C45796, that fits 2-inch hitches. The extender itself has a tongue weight (TW) capacity of 350-lbs and a gross towing capacity of 3500-lbs. But do keep in mind that whatever your hitch's rating is, it will be cut in half when this extender is used.

The safety/warning sticker on your hitch should indicate its Class rating and weight capacities. Your truck could be fitted with a Class III, Class IV or Class V hitch, and these vary considerably in their capacities. Be sure to check the sticker on your hitch to confirm it is rated high enough that when used with the extender its reduced capacity will still be enough for your load. Your dealer can also use your truck VIN number to look up the hitch information.

expert reply by: Adam R