Determining Which Size Hitch to Install on 2000 Mercury Villager

Question:

I see they pretty much look alike What I need to know is: once installed, can a different receiver be exchanged, like the Reece Hitch I had on another vehicle. Sometimes a 1 1/2inch ball is needed, sometimes a 2inch ball. I just want to exchange as needed. Thanks for the info.

asked by: Shirley P

Expert Reply:

There are both 2 inch trailer hitch receivers and 1-1/4 inch receivers available for your 2000 Mercury Villager. The receivers themselves on the hitch cannot be replaced or exchanged with another size. The receivers are welded to the hitch and are a part of its overall design.

There are adapters available, such as the Brophy # HTAD, that can convert a 1-1/4 inch receiver to a 2 inch opening. The potential issue though is that using an adapter like this reduces the trailer hitch capacity by 50 percent.

There are also reducer sleeves like the Brophy # HT02 that will slide into a 2 inch receiver to reduce it to a 1-1/4 inch opening. Because of its design, this type of adapter does NOT reduce the hitch's capacity.

With this in mind, if you plan to use both 2 inch and 1-1/4 inch ball mounts or accessories, your best option will be to go with a 2 inch trailer hitch on your 2000 Mercury Villager and add the Brophy Reducer Sleeve # HT02 with Pin and Clip # PC3 to have on hand when needed. For a 2 inch hitch that is confirmed to fit your vehicle I recommend the Curt Class III Receiver Hitch # C13572. This custom hitch will use existing holes in your vehicle's frame for a no-drill installation and all the needed hardware is included.

I have attached the complete installation manual for this hitch that you can also check out.