Difference in Aerodynamics Between Class III Hitches on Mazda CX-5
Question:
I am deciding between the 2 hitches, and noticed that the Curt has a metal plate shaped like home base which attaches the receiver to the crossbar. On the Draw-Tite, the same plate looks smaller. Unfortunately there are not may photos of the HH. As the scale of the photo are different im just wondering which of the 2 have less cross sectional area which would cause less drag.
asked by: Art
Expert Reply:
There is a small difference in size and shape between the receiver tube reinforcement plates that are part of Curt C13127 and Draw-Tite 75217 Class III hitches. The size/shape/position of these plates are determined by engineering considerations, to give the hitches their maximum strength, but not with regard to wind resistance or drag.
Hitch makers do not really address wind resistance in the design of their hitches since in reality there are many other factors in play that will have far more effect on the vehicle's aerodynamics. For example, a dirty car, as compared to a spotlessly clean one, will have more wind resistance and drag. This is why airlines keep their planes very clean - it saves fuel. Tire inflation pressure also has more effect on fuel consumption than the small surface area of the hitch plate.
Between these two hitches I would choose based on your intended use since they have identical capacities. If you plan to use a hitch bike rack or cargo carrier go for the Draw-Tite 75217 since it does not require use of a stabilizing strap # 18050 as does the Curt hitch C13127. If on the other hand towing is the plan then the Curt is my recommendation since it is lower in cost.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
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 >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch For A 2016 Subaru Forester PZEV
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Recommended Hitch and Bike Rack for a 2006 Honda Accord
- Q&A: Trailer Hitch Mount Bike Rack Will Not Slide All the Way in Receiver on 2014 Ford Focus Hatchback
- Article: Ball Mount Basics: Weight Capacity, Class, and Size
- Q&A: Does the Heat Shield of a 2015 Subaru Forester Need to Get Removed to Install Trailer Hitch
- Q&A: Does Curt Still Require Using Stabilizing Straps with Their Trailer Hitches