Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendation for 2014 Ford Escape
Question:
What would be the best hitch receiver for my 2014 Ford Escape? I am only looking to transport my Thule Camber bike rack. Also, will I lose any ground clearance with a hitch? Thanks
asked by: Jason K
Expert Reply:
The trailer hitch I recommend for your 2014 Ford Escape is the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver Class III # 75782, that you referenced. This hitch will allow you full access to your vehicle's hands-free Liftgate, and it will be much less visible under your vehicle than a hitch with a lower cross tube. The receiver shank will have a slight impact on your Escape's ground clearance, as the receiver will sit below the bumper fascia on your vehicle.
To install this hitch, you want to enlarge some of the access holes and the heat shield will need to be modified. I have attached the installation instructions for this hitch for you.
For a hitch that will have slightly less impact on the ground clearances and is a bit more budget friendly, the Draw-Tite Class III Round Tube Receiver # 75758 is a good option. When we installed this hitch on a 2014 Escape, the measurement from the top of the receiver to the ground was 14-1/2 inches. This measurement with the # 75782 hitch will be less than 14-1/2 inches as the receiver on that hitch will sit lower than the receiver on the # 75758 hitch.
This hitch will not require you to enlarge any access holes or trim the heat shield. However, it will limit the hands-free Liftgate to the sensors on either side of the vehicle, and it will be more visible under the vehicle. I have attached the instructions as well as an installation video for this hitch as well.
I have attached a photo from the installation instructions so you can more easily compare the profiles of each hitch.
Products Referenced in This Question
Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 675 lbs TW
- 4500 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 675 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Thule Camber Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Locks Not Included
- 4 Bikes
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 525 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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