Recommended Class III Trailer Hitch Receiver For A 1999 Toyota RAV4

Question:

I am looking to purchase the class iii receiver hitch. My question is that my rav is a recommended capacity of 1500 pounds. Im towing a pop up camper weighing that. Your class iii hitch is rated for 4000 pounds. Would that be overkill for me? Would a class 1 work? The trailer takes a two inch ball.

asked by: Tim N

Expert Reply:

For your 1999 Toyota RAV4, the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C13524 is a confirmed fit and is a great hitch that is easy to install and has a nice sturdy square tube design. The rated towing capacity of the hitch is far above your vehicle's rated towing capacity as you stated, but you will be much happier with a Class III hitch. The class 1 hitch will greatly reduce your ability to use accessories and will significantly reduce options for even a ball mount. The 2 inch receiver of the Class III is a game changer compared to the 1-1/4 inch receiver opening of the Class I hitch that is very limited to accessories and ball mounts. This will give you the ability to use your hitch receiver for an accessory like a bike rack or cargo carrier if you choose without significantly limiting your options to one Class I compatible.

For a ball mount, I recommend the etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag. This will allow you to tow your trailer level and also give you a nice storage option when it is not in use.

You may want to consider using a locking pin and coupler pin to secure your trailer. I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver & Coupler Lockset - 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver # e99039 to deter theft.

For trailer wiring harness if you don't already have it, I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C55486. This will install to your factory wiring behind the trim panels in the cargo area on both the driver's side and passenger side of your RAV4.