Sway Control and Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2013 Subaru Outback Wagon

Question:

Hi... I am looking into a hitch system for a 2013 Subaru Outback Wagon Limited with the 3.6R engine. Looking at Reese Hitch #44631, the description states Product not capable of Weight Distribution. As I know weight distribution, which is admittedly a little limited, it is tied to the type of ball-mount that you use rather than the receiver itself since the lift bars and sway control attach to the hitch head and shank. Can you clarify what is meant by Product not capable of Weight Distribution? Roads in Alaska, which is where I live, can be very rough with lots of frost heaves and there are many places where you can experience high crosswinds. Having used weight distribution and sway control for a one-ton truck and a 32foot trailer, I like the added safety control and Id like to be able to utilize it even at this smaller scale.

asked by: Bob C

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2013 Subaru Outback the Draw-Tite part # 75673 would be a great option for you as it has a 2 inch opening and Class III capacities. None of the hitches we offer for your vehicle are rated for use with a weight distribution system. Usually this has more to do with the vehicle than the hitch itself. Since the hitch manufacturers specifically say not to use a WD system I can't recommend one for you.

Instead you could use a friction sway control unit like the part # 83660 to help with the crosswinds. you would also need the bracket part # RP26003 to be able to connect the unit to your ball mount.

If you wanted to do some towing you might be interested in etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

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

For trailer wiring you would want the part # 118467. I attached an install video for you to check out as well.