Recommendation For Trailer Hitch For 2003 Subaru Forester
Question:
Which do you recommend? The Curt or the Draw-Tite trailer hitch for a 2003 Subaru Forester? Which is better? I will primarily use the hitch to hold a bike rack, but may use the hitch to pull a small flat trailer if I rent one to take stuff to the dump sometime. Thank you.
asked by: Russell H
Expert Reply:
Both the Curt Class II Hitch, Item # C12038, and the Draw-Tite Class II Hitch, Item # 36311, are confirmed fits for your 2003 Subaru Forester. The Curt Hitch requires stabilizing straps to be used when using hitch for non-trailer loads like a bike rack. When stabilizing straps are not used, your warranty from Curt is voided. Draw-Tite hitches do not require stabilizing straps to be used on non-trailer loads.
The Curt and Draw-Tite Hitches have the same maximum gross trailer weight of 3,500-lbs. However, the Curt hitch has a larger maximum tongue weight capacity of 350-lbs whereas the Draw-Tite's maximum tongue capacity is 300-lbs. Both have visible crosstubes so each will stick out a little behind your Forester.
I recommend the Draw-Tite hitch for your 2003 Subaru Forester over the Curt Hitch because you will not have to worry about using stabilizing straps like Item # 18050.
I have attached additional information and a video you may want to check out.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Tie Down Straps
- CURT
more information >
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 300 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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