Solution for 1-1/4" Ball Mount With 7" Rise for 2016 Honda CRV-EX Towing U-Haul Trailer

Question:

I have a 2016 Honda CRV-EX with a Westin 65-1385 Class 1, 1-1/4inch receiver installed. The CRV is rated to tow 1500 lbs. I need to tow a 4x8foot UHaul cargo trailer, which weighs 850. My expected cargo should weigh 500-600 lbs. The reciever on my CRV is approximately 11inch off the ground, and UHaul states that their coupler height is 18, so I need to find a ball mount with a 7inch rise. Is this possible? If not, is it safe to use a 1-1/4inch to 2inch extension? Are there any other options available?

asked by: Dan W

Expert Reply:

The 1-1/4" receiver does limit you but I have a solution to achieve a 7" rise for a ball mount. You do not want to use an extension since it will cut your capacity in half which means you wouldn't be able to tow that trailer. What you need is the Brophy Anti-Rattle Drawbar # BR39FR. This only has a 5-1/2" rise, but you can combine it with the Curt RockerBall # C94CR.

The ball sits 1-1/2" taller than your standard hitch ball with the shock absorbing base. It also uses a 2" ball which is standard for U-Haul. Together with the Brophy drawbar this will give you the 7" rise you're looking for. It will also improve your towing experience with the ShockDrop technology. This reduces rattling and vibration while reducing stress on your suspension.

expert reply by: Robin H