Tips on How to Choose a Trailer Hitch for a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe

Question:

Hello I just moved to an area where we needed to get something 4wd so we went with a Tahoe now we want to buy a trailer hitch receiver from you but with this being our first SUV we are unsure which one is for us, we have a 2004 Tahoe with 4wd and towing but no receiver, and I believe we have a step bumper, do you have an email I can send a picture to so you can better help us with this being our first SUV were a little in the dark?

asked by: Jacob

Expert Reply:

The biggest factor to consider when choosing a trailer hitch for your 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe is the towing capacity of the vehicle and of the hitch. You can determine your vehicle's towing capacity by checking the owners manual or with your local GM dealer.

Once you verify the towing capacity of your Tahoe, you will want to choose a hitch that can handle either the maximum towing capacity of the vehicle or the maximum weight that you intend to tow if it is less that the capacity of the vehicle. I recommend using the towing capacity of the vehicle.

If you have a step bumper, then you have two trailer hitch options. You can install the Curt Class III Trailer Hitch, # C13422, which has a towing capacity of 6,000 lbs and a maximum tongue weight of 600 lbs. Your other option is the Curt Class V Trailer Hitch, # C15324. This hitch has a maximum towing capacity of 16,000 lbs and a maximum tongue weight of 2,400 lbs. This hitch can handle way more than your Tahoe can handle, but this heavy-duty hitch can hold up to anything that your Tahoe can handle.

I have attached several help articles for you to check out since you are new to towing and trailer hitches. If you have any further questions, feel free to let me know.

In addition to a trailer hitch, you will also want a trailer wiring harness. Most Tahoe's came with the factory trailer wiring behind the rear bumper. If you have the factory wiring, then you would just need the Pollack 7- and 4-Pole Trailer Connector, # HM40975. I have attached an installation video of this connector on a Tahoe for you to check out.

You will also want a ball mount and hitch ball. I recommend the etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit, # EBMK2416 that comes with a handy storage bag, so you can keep everything together while you are not towing.