Trailer Hitch, Ball Mount, Hitch Ball, and Wiring Recommendation for a 2010 Subaru Forester

Question:

I am buying a hitch for my 2010 Subaru Forester. I dont know which hitch to buy. The 1 1/4 or the 2 hitch. Is it just better to go with the 2 with the highest weight capasity so that I have options. I am only planning on towing a small trailer with bikes, or a bike rack on the hitch. Also should I get the 2 inch ball mount or the 3/4 inch ball mount? Thank you for your help!!!

asked by: Allison

Expert Reply:

For your 2010 Subaru Forester, I recommend a 2 inch trailer hitch, like the Curt Trailer Hitch, # 13147, that you have referenced. The advantages of a 2 inch, Class III hitch are, as you have pointed out, greater weight capacity, more options for accessories, and you will be able to use weight distribution if you wanted. I have included a link to the installation details and a video installation below. You will also want to check your owners manual for your vehicle towing capacities.

The recommended ball mount is # C45010. It can be used in either the drop or rise position. In the drop position there will be a 2 inch drop. In the rise position there will be a 3/4 inch rise. Which one you use depends on the trailer you plan to tow. You will want the trailer to be as level as possible when towing. Different trailers have different heights so you may need a rise or drop to get the trailer level. I have included an FAQ article on choosing the correct ball mount that will help.

The trailer also dictates what size ball you will need. The coupler on trailers can accept basically three sizes of balls; 1-7/8, 2, and 2-5/16 inch diameter balls. You can first check the trailer coupler for what size ball it needs and purchase accordingly, or you can use something like a Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set, # 902B, that comes with all three. Or for an individual ball, use # 19260 (1-7/8 inch), # 19247 (2 inch), or # 63853 (2-5/16 inch).

For towing a trailer, you will also need wiring so the trailer lights will work with the vehicle lights. For your Forester, you will need Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118467. Installation is simple. I have included a link to the installation details as well as a video installation on a similar vehicle below.

If you plan on getting a bike rack, make sure that the rack you choose has enough clearance to clear the rear bumper of the vehicle. You will need to measure from the center of the hitch pin hole out to the distance needed to clear the bumper. Most of our bike racks include a similar measurement in the product description.