Looking for RV Hitch With Drop of At Least 3 Inches

Question:

I have read the posts and the measument from the top of the bracket to the top of the hutch tube are not listed. I have to clear a black water hose and I need 3inch between the two. Can you please tell me what the gap is? Also, since the hitch will be set back under the frame I will need to add a hitch extender - does this lessen the recommended tounge load?

asked by: Todd

Expert Reply:

The measurement you're looking for is referred to as the drop. The # UF35-946403 Hitch has a drop of 2 inches, which wouldn't be sufficient for you.

Curt offers the # 13703 hitch that has a three inch drop, but Curt's warranty requires that a stabilizing strap like part # 18050 be used for non-trailer loads like bike racks or cargo carriers. Since most motorhomes and trailers don't have a good spot to attach the strap, I'd pass on that one.

Your best bet would be a hitch like the Draw-Tite # 41991-16, which can be welded or bolted in place. The amount of drop offered will depend on how tall your frame members are. If the frame members are 8 inches tall, you'll have about 6-3/8 inches of drop, which would be plenty. This hitch is width adjustable for frame members that are up to 62 inches apart. The cross tube would need to be welded to the frame brackets. An extender will lower the tongue weight capacity of the hitch by half. However, if the hitch is installed as outlined in the instructions, you'll have a tongue weight capacity of 1600 lbs, half of which would be plenty of capacity.

Keep in mind, you'll be limited to the capacity of the lowest rated component of your towing system. Check with the manufacturer of your RV/Motorhome to determine what the capacity of the frame members at the rear of the RV is.

expert reply by: Mike L