Recommendation for Adding Clearance Between RV and Trailer

Question:

hi, I have a 13 ft boston whaler ,which I tow behind a 30 ft rv . Foward turning radius is fine , however , when backing up , I could use a little more turning radius. Would this affect the stability on the hway. hitch is rated 7500and boat is under 2000 lbs.

asked by: FRED L

Helpful Expert Reply:

Using a hitch extender like the Tow Ready # HE18 referenced in your question is a great option for giving you some additional clearance between your RV and trailer. Using this or any other hitch-mounted adapter will reduce the tongue weight of the hitch by 50 percent, but it will not affect the towing capacity/horizontal pull. You should have no issue pulling your 2,000 pound boat with your 7,500 pound hitch, even when using an adapter like this one.

Another option to consider that may give you the necessary clearance without having to add an extra piece, is a ball mount with a longer shank, such as the Curt # C45270. This ball mount measures 13 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the center of the ball hole. It has a towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and a ball hole diameter of 1 inch. Using a longer ball mount will not reduce the trailer hitch capacity in any way.

I have attached a couple short video demonstrations on these products that you can also take a look at.

expert reply by: Chris R