Recommended Class II Trailer Hitch for 2014 Toyota Avalon
Question:
I am trying to decide between The Draw-Tite 36540 versus the Curt 12107 for my 2014 Toyota Avalon, and want to know the difference between the two. Is one stronger than the other? Is one more visible? How difficult are they to install?
asked by: Mark B
Expert Reply:
Both hitches are Class II, with a 3500 lb towing capacity. The Curt hitch has a slightly higher tongue weight capacity, at 350 lbs, versus the 300 lb tongue weight capacity of the Hidden Hitch # 90031. Both hitches would install in the same manner. The Curt # C12107 features a crossbar that's constructed of tubular steel, while the Hidden Hitch # 90031 uses square tube steel. For both hitches, the entire length of the hitch crossbar and the receiver will be visible below the rear bumper fascia of the vehicle. Installation is pretty simple, as you can see by clicking the provided links to the installation instructions.
The hitch I'd choose would depend on what it's being used for. If you were just looking for a hitch to serve as the mounting point for a bike rack or other hitch mounted accessory, I'd recommend the Draw-Tite # 36540. The hitch doesn't included a ball mount, which you won't need if you're not towing. I wouldn't recommend the Curt # C12107 for mounting accessories, because their warranty requirements state that a stabilizing strap like part # 18050 needs to be used for any non-trailer loads, which can be inconvenient. The Draw-Tite model doesn't have that requirement.
If you'll be towing, you'll need the # 36061 You'd also need a trailer ball, like part # 19256 for a 1-7/8 inch ball or # 19258 for a 2 inch ball. You'd also need a trailer wiring harness, part # 118578.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Tie Down Straps
- CURT
more information >
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 1-7/8 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 2000 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 1-9/16 Inch Shank Length
- 3/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 3500 lbs GTW
- Class I
- Class II
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 300 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class II
- 300 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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