Providing More Clearance Between 2001 Explorer and 14 Foot Boat Its Towing  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you're towing the boat using a trailer ball installed directly into a hole on the bumper, and you're wanting to get more room between the trailer and the vehicle, a good alternative would be to install a frame mounted hitch like the Draw-Tite Class III Trailer Receiver Hitch, part # 70647. If you needed more extension, you could use a longer ball mount, like part # 80233. You'd also need the appropriately sized trailer ball, like # 19260 for a 1-7/8 inch ball or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball.

There ARE hitch extenders such as part # C45796 available, but be aware that using an extender will reduce the tongue weight and towing capacity by half, as well as adding an extra component between the vehicle and the item being towed. This can cause bouncing or rattling, which you might find undesirable.

expert reply by: Mike L

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