Recommended Extended Ball Mount for a 2 Inch Hitch

Question:

I bought a used 2019 Outback and the trailer hitch was installed but recessed towards the front of the vehicle. Why would the hitch be installed recessed? Are there ball hitches that are extra long so when installed it reaches past the bumper? How far past the bumper does the ball need to be so it is safe to trailer? Im guessing the measurement from the pin on the hitch to the edge of the bumper is around 9inch but not sure. Thanks.

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

That is something I have never heard of. I recommend looking around for a part number or sticker on that hitch before you tow with it to verify what it's capacity is. If someone made that for a bike rack or other application it may not be rated for towing or even safe to use. Feel free to email me directly any pics if you'd like.

9" is pretty far back for a hitch pin hole but we do have extended ball mounts that will close that distance and give you some space from your bumper to attach a trailer. There's no mandated distance the ball needs to be from the vehicle. Just far enough to avoid damaging you vehicle.

I recommend the Curt Ball Mount 3/4" Rise or 2" Drop item # D-26. This ball mount is 12-5/8" Long from the center of the hitch pin hole to the center of ball hole. The closest portion is 8-1/2" from the pin hole so if you do not have much vertical clearance you'll need to use the longer 15-3/4" Long item # 80232 so you don't hit the bottom of your bumper.

For a 2" hitch ball you will also need item # 63845 or item # C40005 for a 2-5/16" hitch ball.

Additionally, you will want to pick up the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches item # e98880. This will secure your ball mount from theft.