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Hitch and Cargo Carrier Compatibility and Recommendations for 2014 Ford Escape  

Question:

Can you tell me the weight difference between the 1 1/4 and 2inch versions of these hitches. I plan to use the hitch only for carrying cargo no towing. I already have a 2inch cargo platform but would be interested in using a smaller 1 1/4 hitch and using an adapter or buying a new cargo platform if the weight savings was considerable to save on daily performance and mileage. Draw Tight 75758 class III 2 vs. Draw Tight 36524 class II 1 1/4 thanks!

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Expert Reply:

Since your primary hitch application is going to be use with a cargo carrier I urge you to opt for the stronger 2-inch Class III type hitch. Adapters are not a good idea in this application since they have the unavoidable side-effect of cutting your hitch's capacity in HALF and they will also lead to much more random motion of the carrier while you drive.

Actually the shipping weight of Class II hitch # 36529 is 40-lbs, so it is slightly heavier than the Class III hitch # 75758 which has 36-lbs shipping weight. In actual practice the effects on mileage from the weight difference of the hitch will be swamped by the effects of wind resistance against your loaded cargo.

Since you already own a 2-inch cargo carrier a Class III hitch such as # 75758 rated at 525-lbs tongue weight is absolutely the way to go for both capacity and safety. The link at right will show you all Class III options. It is advisable to check your owner's manual for any guidance as to the vehicle's tongue weight capacity, which may differ from the hitch's.

I have also linked for you two articles with hitch installation tips as well as a video to simplify your install.

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Adam R

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