How to Extend Trailer Hitch So I Can Tow 2017 Rockwood Tent Trailer with Tailgate Down

Question:

I have recently purchased a 2017 Rockwood model 1980 Tent Trailer, and plan to pull it with my 2015 GMC HD truck 1 ton which will have the tailgate down during towing because the truck will be hauling a Razor in the bed. Since the tailgate will be down during towing, I need to extend the distance between the truck and trailer to avoid any encounter between the tailgate and the tongue jack and propane tanks. The truck has a V5 Receiver, capable of hauling 13,000 lb. GVWR 1,500 lb. Tongue Weight. The hitch has a 10,000 lb. maximum GVWR rating, and a maximum Tongue Weight capacity of 1,000 lb. The trailers GVWR is 3242 lb., and Hitch Weight of 242 lb. Based on the 10,000 lb. capacity rating of the Blue Ox BX88264, and its 1,000 lb. Tongue weight rating, it would appear that all of the towing components detailed above are well within capacity for towing this trailer using this extender, however I would very much appreciate your confirmation before I proceed with this solution. Thank you!

asked by: Dave

Expert Reply:

I do have some options for you however, the Blue Ox Hitch Extender for Tow Bars # BX88264 is only to be used for flat towing a vehicle, not for towing a trailer. Instead, the Brophy Hitch Extender with Step # ST18 can be used to tow, will extend 18 inches, and has a GTW of 3,500 lbs.

Another solution is to go with an extra long ball mount like the Curt # C45270 which is 13 inches long. It's rated for 7500 lbs. GTW and 750 lbs. TW which is still enough for your Rockwood.

expert reply by: Charles S