Recommendations For Outfitting A 2008 Subaru Forester To Tow A Trailer

Question:

Hello! Ive really enjoyed browsing this site. Lots of great information and videos. Ive purchased and installed the Curt T-connector Vehicle Wiring Harness order #112202949, and Id like to go ahead and get everything else I need in my next order. I used the fit guide feature on this site and Ill likely go with this C12038. However, Im hoping someone can guide me on what else I need to include in the order. Unfortunately I dont know the specs of what Ill be towing, other than it will be a camping trailer within the specs of the 2008 Subaru Forester 2.5x towing capacity. Heres what I believe is needed. Could you let me know the item numbers and any recommendations you may have? As well as anything else I am not including? - Trailer hitch ball mount - Trailer hitch ball - A wiring adapter from the 4-pin I purchased in the event the trailer has breaks Thank you so much

asked by: Timothy C

Helpful Expert Reply:

Though the size of the ball and amount of rise or drop for the ball mount will be determined by the size of the trailer coupler and how high it is off the ground, I can definitely make a few suggestions for you.

To start with, the Curt # C12038 will be the hitch I recommend. You will need to double check your owner's manual to verify the vehicle capacities, but this will be rated up to 3,500 pounds towing and 350 pounds of tongue weight. Once installed, the top of the receiver opening will sit right at 13-1/4". I mention this as it is half of what will be needed to determine the amount of rise or drop needed for the ball mount.

Just as an example, the typical U-Haul trailer will measure 17" from the ground to the bottom of the coupler. This will mean you need just under 4" of rise to stay level when towing. You technically have plus or minus 1.5" to stay within level, but the Curt Class II Drawbar - 3-7/8" Rise - 13-1/2" Long - 3,500 lbs # C45000 would put you right where you need to be. The # F-4 pin and clip will keep the # C45000 secure in the hitch as well.,

From here you have a few options for the ball. Most of the trailers in your weight range will not use the larger 2-5/16", so I will not be including one. With that said, the Convert-A-Ball Interchangeable Ball Set - 1-7/8", 2" Balls - 3/4" XL Shank - Nickel # 800B will actually include both a 1-7/8" and 2" ball making it a highly recommended part. You just need to pop the pin out of the head and they can be swapped out in seconds.

If you do end up getting a trailer with brakes, you will need to upgrade your 4 Flat to a 7 Way plug. This happens pretty often, so we do have what you need for this as well. The 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation # ETBC7L will get you the needed power to run the Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller # C51180. This controller doesn't require anything run into the cab of the vehicle and is very easy to set up and use. The only downside is that it uses your smartphone for the manual override button if needed. But even this can be solved with the simple add-on of the Manual Override Button # C83HR. This can be mounted anywhere within arms reach and really does make this controller a great option.