Recommended Trailer Hitch and Wiring for 2011 Honda Odyssey

Question:

Hello, I am getting ready to install a hitch to tow a pop-up camper with my 2011 Honda Odyssey. I have seen some questions on the hitch clearance between the Curt and Draw-Tite hitch. Does the clearance differ based on the year of the Odyssey? I have seen a couple different answers on the amount of clearance it looks like the Curt has more clearance generally but the draw-tite is recessed more? Which hitch would you recommend? I also need the wiring kit and hitch ball. Does the size of the hitch ball depend on the pop-up camper, or is there a standard size for that type of trailer? Is there anyone else I need? Thank you!

asked by: David

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your 2011 Honda Odyssey, I recommend the Curt Class III Round Tube Receiver Hitch # C13068. When installed on your 2011 Odyssey, the Curt Class III hitch is going to have a measurement of 5 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the outer most edge of the bumper. The Draw-Tite Class III 75270 hitch that is also confirmed to fit will have a measurement of 6-1/2 inches, meaning it is recessed back more from the bumper, which may require ball mounts or hitch accessories with longer shanks in order to clear the bumper.

The Curt hitch also provides a slightly better ground clearance measurement of 12-3/4 inches from the ground to the top of the hitch receiver compared to the 12 inch measurement on the Draw-Tite model.

Another major difference to note is that the Curt hitch that I recommend actually has a lower towing weight capacity of 3,500 pounds, while the Draw-Tite hitch has a capacity of 4,500 pounds. However, when researching your vehicle I found that the towing capacity of the Odyssey itself is 3,500 pounds, so you will not be able to exceed this capacity regardless of the trailer hitch that is installed.

For wiring, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Wiring Harness # 118521 to install a 4-way connector needed to power your trailer's signal lights. The T-One connector will plug directly into existing wiring behind the driver side trim panel.

The hitch ball size you need will depend on what the coupler for your trailer will accept. This information should be stamped onto the coupler itself. I have attached a link that will take you to our available selection of ball mounts and hitch balls, as well as an article that will help you determine the correct one for your setup.

I have also included installation videos on your 2011 Honda Odyssey for the recommended products on this page and a couple of other great articles on towing a trailer that you may find helpful.