Difference Between Class IV and Class V Trailer Hitch

Question:

What is the difference between a class IV hitch and a class V hitch? Thanks

asked by: James H

Expert Reply:

The big differences between a Class IV and a Class V hitch are the capacities and the opening size. Class IV is going to be a 2 inch hitch opening that has tongue weights typically up to 1,200 lbs and total trailer weight of 12,000 lbs. For a Class V hitch the capacities bump up to 20,000 lbs for the total trailer weight and 2,000 lbs tongue weight. Typically this hitch will have a 2-1/2 inch hitch opening but there are some 2 inch sizes available.

For more info on the differences between hitch sizes check out the help article I attached.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Gary S.

3/3/2020

Hello, when mounting a tow hitch to the frame of p/u truck are the mounting hole configurations the same on class III, IV and V trailer hitches, ie interchangeable or are they OEM driven to fit specific makes and models? Please advise, thank you!

Chris R.

3/4/2020

This can depend on the specific style of the hitch you're looking at along with your particular truck model, but in general a hitch's rating/capacity isn't dictated by its mounting locations on the vehicle but by the construction of the hitch itself. A Class IV hitch will likely use the same mounting holes on the frame rails as a Class V hitch, etc. If that doesn't answer your question just let me know!