Ground Clearance Concerns with a Trailer Hitch Installed on a 2014 Ford Escape

Question:

Hello, I have a 2014 ford escape s and was wondering about ground clearance with this receiver? The reciever itself is raised, but the corners seem to be low...any issues with dragging?

asked by: Travis S

Expert Reply:

On the Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75758 for your 2014 Ford Escape the distance from the ground to the bottom of the receiver is about 12 inches. But like you said on the sides the hitch sticks down further, at least another inch. But the locations where the hitch hangs the lowest are also further forward on the vehicle so the vehicle would have to be transitioning from level ground to a very steep incline for the hitch to make contact with the ground.

Since ground clearance is a concern I recommend going with Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 75782. With it only the receiver is visible and no part of the hitch hangs down lower than the receiver. I have linked a video showing an example installation of this hitch (and the other one) for you.

If you plan on doing some towing I recommend 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.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

And for trailer wiring you can use # 118566 to add a 4-Way flat connector to the rear of the vehicle. I have included a link to a video showing an installation of the wiring as well.