Compatibility of Curt Class II Drawbar # C45521 With OEM 1-1/4 Inch Receiver on 2012 Ford Escape

Question:

I have a 2012 Ford Escape 4WD Limited with Factory 1-1/4 towing package. Is your Part# C45521 Ball Mount compatible with my vehicle? I will be using your 2inch ball and 1/2inch clip and will be towing a 2200 pound pop-up camper. Thanks!

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

The Curt # C45521 drawbar you referenced is compatible with a 1-1/4 inch receiver, as is the # F-4 hitch pin and clip. You'll want to make sure that the hitch on your Escape has sufficient capacity to handle the pop-up you're planning on towing.

The first thing I'd recommend you do is to determine the capacity of the hitch. The hitch should have a sticker on it telling you if it's a Class I or a Class II hitch. A Class I hitch will have a towing capacity of up to 2000 lbs, and a tongue weight capacity up to 200 lbs. A Class II hitch can have a towing capacity up to 3500 lbs and a tongue weight capacity up to 350 lbs. If the hitch is a Class I, I wouldn't recommend towing that pop-up as its weight would exceed the hitch capacity. If the hitch is a Class II, it should handle the pop-up with no problems whatsoever.

expert reply by: Mike L