Hitch, Wiring and Trailer Brake Controller for 2016 Subaru Forester Towing Boston Whaler Boat  

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For your 2016 Subaru Forester you will want to use the higher-capacity hitch option, the 2-inch Class III type, to do any kind of towing. This hitch size also offers the best compatibility with hitch-mount accessories like bike racks such as the Thule EasyFold # TH903202 and cargo carriers such as the Curt # C18151.

Online research on your 2016 Subaru Forester indicates a maximum towing capacity of 1500-lbs but your own printed manual should be consulted to confirm the tow rating of your specific Forester.
Research on the Boston Whaler website shows the Super Sport series of powerboats have weights from 849-lbs (the 13-foot 130 Super Sport) to 1490-lbs (for the 170). Both quoted weights are with engines and fuel. The trailer weight needs to be added.

The hitch I recommend is the Draw-Tite # 75876 which has a 3500-lb capacity. It installs without drilling using the included hardware. The instructions, a helpful article and an installation video are linked to aid you in the installation. Many owners do this themselves but local auto shops will often install the hitch for a reasonable fee.

If the trailer has just lights (but no electric brakes) you will just need a 4-pole wiring kit like # 118467 which offers easy plug-in installation as shown in the other video linked for you. If the trailer has electric brakes you will need a 7-way wiring set-up and a trailer brake controller. In this case you will also need kit # ETBC7 and a brake controller like the easy-to-use Prodigy P2 # 90885.

You may also be interested in our handy ball mount kit # 989900 to complete your towing gear.

expert reply by: Adam R

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