What Size Hitch to Install on 2014 Subaru Forester to Allow Installation of Hitch-Mounted Twiststep
Question:
I just bought a 2014 Subaru Forester. I purchased a Twiststep so my dog can get in and out of the back. Do you have any idea what I should buy to be able to install the twist step? It says it takes either 2 in or 11/4 inch receiver, but I cannot tell which I should buy. Many thanks.
asked by: Susan G
Expert Reply:
Your 2014 Subaru Forester can be fitted with two types of hitch, either a 1-1/4-inch Class II type or a 2-inch Class III. Many hitch-mount accessory items like your Twiststep (and many bike racks, for example) have the flexibility to be used with either size hitch receiver. Generally a 2-inch hitch has broader compatibility with a range of accessory items.
Often a Class III hitch will have a higher tongue weight capacity than a Class II hitch. If you have any expectations for using the hitch to tow or to carry heavier accessory items like a bike rack or cargo carrier then I would urge you to go for the 2-inch hitch. Cost differences between the Class II and Class III hitches are very slight, so when in doubt, go for the higher-rated item that will give you the most capacity and greatest safety margin.
My recommendation is the Curt 2-inch Class III hitch # C13144. This hitch offers a substantial 525-lb tongue weight capacity which is plenty for the step, a large bike rack or a cargo basket (which often can have a similar weight capacity). This hitch bolts on using included hardware and without any welding required. The installation instructions are attached for your reference.
Note that this hitch does not include a hitch pin and clip that is required to secure the step or other accessory item to the hitch. You can use either a simple pin and clip like # C21500 or if you prefer to lock the step to the hitch you can use trailer hitch lock # C23519. A video for this item is linked for you.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-3/16" Span
- Hitch Pins and Clips
- Standard Hitch Pin
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- 5/8 Inch Diameter
- 3-3/16 Inch Span
- CURT
more information >
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock - 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - Stainless Steel
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Standard Pin Lock
- Keyed Unique
- Stainless Steel
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- Flush Pin
- 3-5/8 Inch Span
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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