Will Installing Hitch on 2011 Subaru Outback Increase Vehicles 200 lb Tongue Weight Capacity

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Question:

Dear etrailer, I want to install a Class III hitch receiver on my 2011 Outback 2.5l, CVT strictly for carrying a bike rack, cargo carrier, etc. I will not be towing a trailer. The vehicle owners manual specifies a maximum tongue weight of 200 pounds. I do not know if this means with the Outback factory hitch or any hitch. Will getting a Class III hitch receiver with a maximum tongue weight capacity of 600 pounds allow me to actually carry up to 600 pounds or am I limited to the 200 pounds? If limited to 200 pounds, could I increase the maximum tongue weight capacity with something like air shocks? The reason I ask is that I may eventually want to carry a small 400 pound motorcycle on a hitch-mount motorcycle carrier. Thank you

asked by: Rick H

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Expert Reply:

Since any towing system will be limited by the capacity of the lowest rated component, you'll be limited to the 200 lb tongue weight capacity of the vehicle, even though the Curt # C13410 hitch itself has a 600 lb capacity.

I couldn't speak to why Subaru limits the tongue weight capacity of the vehicle to 200 lbs, in many cases it's because the structure of the vehicle where the hitch attaches cannot withstand more than a limited amount of downward force.

Using rear helper springs or any other modifications wouldn't increase the tongue weight capacity of the vehicle.

To transport a motorcycle, you'll want to use a small trailer like # K2MMT5X7. If you decide to go that route, in addition the hitch, you'll also need a trailer wiring harness like # 118467, a ball mount like # C45010 with a pin and clip # PC3, along with a trailer ball like # 19260 for a 1-7/8 inch or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball.

expert reply by: Mike L

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Answer 1

Okay, there's a lot to go over here, so let's get right to it with the best option for a hitch and 7-way for a 2017 Subaru Outback for you to tow your trailer. We'll start with the hitch: - Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13410 The reason I…

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Answer 2

The best trailer hitch we have available for your 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon is the Curt Class III #C13410 because of its hidden crosstube design and superior black powder coat finish. The hidden design means only the 2" receiver is visible from…

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Answer 3

Both the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver #75673 and the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C13206 will require drilling to install on your 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon. It is only a 1-1/8" access hole though so it is pretty minimal. The reason…

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Answer 4

We have had some other people have a bit of trouble with the re-installation of the bumper fascia when installing the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch #76227 or Curt Trailer Hitch #C13410 on your 2017 Subaru Outback. What has been recommended to help resolve…

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Answer 5

For your 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon I would recommend the mostly hidden Curt #C13410 which has great towing capacities and best ground clearance. Then for trailer wiring the Tekonsha kit part #118467 would be your best option as its the easiest to…

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Answer 6

The foam panel is in the bumper to help support the bumper panel as well as provide a cushion for the cover if there is a minor collision. Without the cushion the cover will tend to break or crack easier as it does not have the support needed. I have…

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Answer 7

The main difference between the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part #C13410 and the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part #76227 is the manufacturer. They install the same way and offer the same weight capacities. Between the two there is no…

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Answer 8

I definitely understand being a bit overwhelmed by the amount of options in front of you, however I can definitely help with differentiating the trailer hitches for your 2019 Subaru Outback Wagon along with explaining my personal recommendation,…

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Answer 9

As long as the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the face of the hitch is at least 1-1/2" (see attached photo) you'll be good to use the Thule EasyFold XT #TH903202 with the OEM hitch on your 2018 Subaru Outback Wagon. If the…

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Answer 10

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part #C13410 is an excellent option for a 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon. It will pair perfectly with the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness part #118467 which is what I recommend. The trailer wiring harness options all do the…

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Answer 11

I took a look at the online owner's manual for your 2012 Subaru Outback and found that as long as you have the 3.6L engine, the vehicle is capable of towing a 3,000 pound trailer if it is equipped with brakes. For a trailer without brakes, the…

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Answer 12

You are safe to tow up to the full rated capacity of your 2010 Subaru Outback 2.5L. The online owners manual states a maximum loaded trailer weight of 2,700 lbs with a maximum tongue weight of 200 lbs. The manual states this is 8% of the maximum…

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Will Installing Hitch on 2011 Subaru Outback Increase Vehicles 200 lb Tongue Weight Capacity

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