Class III Trailer Hitch for 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-350

Question:

Hello - I am looking for a hitch riser that will elevate my electric mobility chair lift, to keep it from dragging when I go up my steep driveway. I really do not even have the hitch yet, but, from past experience, I know Im going to need to raise it up as much as possible. Just FYI: The total weight of the lift with scooter is approximately 300-350 lbs. and extends about 30 inches from the receiver, when loaded with the scooter. I was actually looking at the 8inch riser, but not sure if it would be rated for this application. Im also looking for a heavy-duty hitch that will fit a 2013 Mercedes GLK 350 - if you have any recommendations for that vehicle. : I appreciate any information you could provide, and if you require any further information, please let me know. Looking forward to hearing from you. Regards,

asked by: Stuart R

Expert Reply:

The 2-inch hitch I recommend for your 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-350 is the Draw-Tite # 75774 which includes hardware for its no-drill installation. This is the highest-capacity option. A video is linked for your reference. This hitch has a rating of 600-lbs of tongue weight (TW) which is the downward force on the hitch from what is connected to it. This capacity is plenty for your 350-lb total chair and carrier weight but as you noted ground clearance can become an issue when entering steep driveways.

Although there are hitch adapters that add height, such as the Malone # MPG544 which adds 7-1/2-inches to the set-up when its upper receiver is used, all such adapters have the side-effect of causing you to lose half of your hitch's rated capacity. So while using this item might give you the ground clearance you need, this comes at the cost of hitch capacity, which is now 300-lbs.

Whether you use an adapter or not you will likely still need to approach your driveway from a sharper angle to help reduce the chances for contact between the carrier and the driveway.

expert reply by: Adam R