Using Hitch Adapter on Class I Hitch for Motorcycle Carrier on 2012 Ford Mustang

Question:

Hi. Putting a hitch on my Mustang currently and I am told the 1 1/4 is the max I can put on it from my local installer. So if that is the case, can I use one of these adapters? I know it depends on what I am using it for. Plan on using the adapter only for a 400lb max weight Motorcycle carrier but in reality will never have more than 200lbs on it. Otherwise for trailer pulling, will just use the 1 1/4 to pull a light duty trailer with max 1000 lbs. I think I would be good with this, but just want to verify. My car is base model convertible Mustang 2012 with the 305 hp V-6. Thanks in advance!

asked by: Kevin R

Expert Reply:

You are correct that the only available trailer hitches for your 2012 Ford Mustang are Class I hitches that provide a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening.

If you do not yet have a trailer hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class I Sport Frame Receiver Hitch # 24863. This is custom fit for your vehicle and will use existing holes in the Mustang's frame for a no-drill installation. I have attached the written installation instructions that you can also take a look at.

You can use an adapter like the Brophy # HTAD to expand the 1-1/4 inch opening to 2 inches for your cargo carrier, but there is an important factor to keep in mind. Using this or any similar hitch adapter is going to reduce the tongue weight capacity of the trailer hitch by 50%. This means that the 200 pound tongue weight capacity that the Draw-Tite hitch provides will be reduced to 100 pounds when using an adapter. In order to safely use your existing carrier, you will need to stay below this reduced limit, also keeping in mind that the weight of the carrier itself factors into this total.

A better option might be to pull whatever you planned on loading onto the carrier on the trailer that you mentioned instead, as it might be difficult to reduce the tongue weight on the carrier to what is needed when using an adapter.

Since you did mention that you will be doing some towing, I recommend the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118487 to install a 4-Way connector at the rear of your Mustang. This will connect to your trailer to power its signal lights. This custom-fit harness will connect to existing ports located behind the driver and passenger side tail lights on the vehicle. I have included the installation details for you to check out.

To tow a trailer you will also need a ball mount. I have attached an article that explains how to choose the best one for towing your trailer level, along with a link that will take you to our available selection.