When we talk about hitch receivers, we are introduced to many things that may initially sound overwhelming. However, even with the availability of different types of hitch receivers, it’s easy to understand each of them if you have the right person for the explanation. So, are you someone who is clueless about various trailer hitches and their classes?
Well, you don’t need to look any further, as Bills Mobile Hitch And Tow Bar Installation is here to explain everything about them. After reading this post, you’ll learn about hitch receiver types, trailer hitches types, and various hitch classes. In addition, we’ll discuss which hitch is best for which purpose and where you can get the best installation services for trailer hitches. So, first, let’s start with understanding different types of hitch receivers.
Six Types Of Hitch Receivers, And When Are They Used?
So, before learning about trailer hitches types and classes, it’s vital to know what types of hitch receivers are available in the market. In general, there are 6 types of hitch receivers, including:
- Custom Hitch
- Bumper Hitch
- Front Hitch
- RV Hitch
- Multi-Fit Hitch
- Rear Mount Hitch
Now, let’s understand each of these receivers one by one.
Custom Hitch
As its name indicates, a custom hitch is a receiver designed particularly for your vehicle’s model. And since it is made on demand, it will function well in terms of strength and flexibility.
However, while using this hitch, ensure all the fitting holes are in the right place. This is because making the right holes will make connecting your custom hitch to the vehicle easier.
But, there is a certain limitation to custom hitches. These hitches are only available for trucks that are popular in the market. So, if you are considering buying a custom hitch receiver, ensure it will work for your truck.
Bumper Hitch
Now, for the second hitch receiver, we have a bumper hitch. You can use these types of hitch receivers for lightweight towing. So, in general, a bumper hitch is good for towing cars. An installer will fit this receiver to the bumper of your vehicle.
However, just because the towing capacity of bumper hitches is low, it doesn’t mean the quality of these hitches is low too. In fact, this hitch receiver is known to be the cheapest in the market. Therefore, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can definitely try a bumper hitch.
Front Hitch
From the name of this hitch receiver, it’s easy to guess where you’ll need to connect this hitch. So, yes, to make this hitch work, you’ll have to connect it to the front of your vehicle. However, remember, you can’t use the front hitch receivers for towing purposes.
Generally, people use this hitch receiver type to hold tires, snowplows, and winches.
RV Hitch
RV hitch receivers come under heavy class, meaning these hitches can easily tow heavy-weight vehicles such as RVs or motor homes.
In addition, this hitch type can easily handle various hitch accessories specific to the RV. You cannot connect an RV hitch to a car. So, you’ll only need these hitches when you want to connect them to your large vans or trucks.
Multi-Fit Hitch
Multi-fit hitches are the next best option if your vehicle doesn’t qualify for a custom hitch. These hitches come equipped with an adjustable frame on them.
Now, this adjustable frame comes with a multi-fit hitch so that you can adjust the frame to the size that exactly matches your vehicle needs. People generally use this type of hitch for their SUVs and trucks.
Rear Mount Hitch
A rear mount hitch is a hitch receiver type you can connect to the underside of your vehicle’s back. In addition, rear month hitches are among the most common receivers hitches available.
Furthermore, you can get this hitch receiver as a custom and multi-fit hitch receiver.
Seven Types Of Trailer Hitches And What They Are Good For?
So, after learning about the six types of hitch receivers, we will explore the different trailer hitch types, their functions, towing capacity, and general availability. There are mainly 7 types of trailer hitch, including:
- Rear Receiver Hitch
- Bumper Hitch
- 5th Wheel Hitch
- Pintle Hitch
- Weight Distribution Hitch
- Front Mount Hitch
- Gooseneck Hitch
In this section, we’ll explore these trailer hitches and understand their purposes or whether you can use them for your vehicle. However, here you’ll only get a general overview, so we don’t confuse you with the technicalities. Discuss every detail with your provider if you decide to buy any of the following hitches. Every hitch is somewhat unique and offers different weight limits.
Rear Receiver Hitch
| Type Of Hitch | Function | Towing Capacity | Availability |
| Rear Receiver Hitch | Offers a tube for accessories | ~ 20,000 lbs. | Work on most vehicles |
If we talk about how common a hitch is, the first name that will come out of the mouth will probably be the rear receiver hitch. By far, this is one of the hitches that commonly comes in use and is easily available in the market. In addition, while this hitch is common, it is also one of the most versatile hitches currently available.
Also, as you may guess from its name, you must connect a rear receiver hitch to your vehicle’s rear or back. Furthermore, you’ll find a square tube on this hitch. The main function of this square tube is to allow you to fit your accessories into the hitch, such as a ball hitch. Another great thing about this hitch receiver is that it allows you to tow various things using the same installation setup.
Talking about the hitch sizes, this hitch receiver has a large variety of sizes. We’ll discuss these different sizes more once we reach the hitch class section. However, one thing you should know about hitch classes is that they give you an idea of how much towing you can do with them.
But, as we have already mentioned, these features can vary from product to product. Therefore, whenever you think of purchasing a hitch, read about its details to know whether it can help you. If your towing requirements aren’t much, and you only need to tow your trailer, the rear receiver hitch will be the best choice in most cases.
Bumper Hitch
| Type Of Hitch | Function | Towing Capacity | Availability |
| Bumper Hitch | Comes with a tube for accessories | ~ 6,000 lbs. | Available for most vehicles |
One thing you should be clear about a bumper hitch is that it’s not for heavy towing. You can go as far as pulling a lightweight trailer with it. So, avoid pulling a heavy load with this hitch, such as a horse, RV, or motorhome.
This trailer hitch type holds quite similarly to rear mount hitches. This is because this hitch also comes with a square hitch receiver. And just like before, you can connect different towing accessories into this hitch.
The one drawback that makes bumper hitches less efficient is that they are connected to the vehicle’s bumper. And because of this fact, you cannot carry a heavy load with this hitch. However, because it’s attached to the vehicle’s bumper, it gives you a free hand on using this hitch on various vehicles. Just make sure you don’t tow too much weight with this hitch, as your bumper may not be able to handle the load.
5th Wheel Hitch
| Type Of Hitch | Function | Towing Capacity | Availability |
| 5th Wheel Hitch | You can couple it to a fifth-wheel kingpin | ~ 30,000 lbs. | Only for pickup trucks |
You can tow heavy stuff like an RV with a fifth-wheel hitch. While standard hitches can help you pull a good amount of weight, they will mostly not work where hefty towing is involved. You can simply go for a 5th wheel hitch when all the other hitches fail.
You can install a fifth-wheel hitch in your truck’s back. This hitch is only available for trucks; you cannot use it if you don’t own one. And because of this, you might be unable to tow your motorhome or RV.
Another amusing thing about 5th-wheel hitches is their towing capacity, which is significant. If this hitch is installed, you can tow around 24,000 – 30,000 lbs with your truck. However, the towing capacity of a fifth-wheel hitch can vary based on where you buy it from. That’s why, before buying a 5th-wheel hitch, read about its specification.
Pintle Hitch
| Type Of Hitch | Function | Towing Capacity | Availability |
| Pintle Hitch | You can couple it to a lunette ring | ~ 60,000 lbs. | For heavy-duty vehicles |
Generally, pintle hitches are less popular compared to other hitch options. But, even if these hitches are not that popular, they are known to have a high towing capacity. While this can vary from hitch to hitch, a pintle hitch can carry around 60,000 lbs.
The appearance of this hitch is like a large hook. Your trailer will have an eyelet on it, and this is where the pintle hitch will be connected. After that, you can slide the eyelet onto the hook of the pintle hitch. The reason for doing this is to make a tight connection, so you can easily tow the vehicle.
Because pintle hitches are not so common, you may struggle to find them in the market. So, if you really want to use a pintle hitch for your vehicles, you can try looking it over on the internet or contact Bills Mobile Hitch And Tow Bar Installation.
Weight Distribution Hitch
| Type Of Hitch | Function | Towing Capacity | Availability |
| Weight Distribution Hitch | Help level trailer and vehicle | ~15,000 lbs. | Needs hitch receiver |
Now, although this is part of our list of types of trailer hitches, the weight distribution hitch is not actually a hitch. You can use it as an accessory to plug into your hitch receiver.
You should learn about weight distribution hitch features if you plan to tow heavier stuff, such as an RV or a motorhome.
Firstly, you should know that there are numerous hitches that have a certain tongue weight. In addition, every vehicle comes with a maximum tongue weight too. Whenever you reach that maximum limit of tongue weight, you will experience difficulty in controlling your vehicle. Furthermore, the bottom of your vehicle may also face damage due to passing it over the road bumps.
Now, this is where a weight distribution hitch comes into play. From its name, you can guess that this hitch allows you to distribute the weight of the hitch tongue. And when your hitch tongue is not experiencing too much load, it would be easier to tow heavy loads.
Also, even if you don’t want to tow heavy stuff, with a weight distribution hitch, you’ll find it easier to control your vehicle. Furthermore, you’ll experience an easy ride without feeling like you’re pulling something heavy.
Also Read: Types Of Hitches For Trucks And Where Can You Buy Them
Front Mount Hitch
| Type Of Hitch | Function | Towing Capacity | Availability |
| Front Mount Hitch | Offers a tube for accessories | ~20,000 lbs. | Mostly available for all kinds of vehicles |
You can say that a front mount hitch works as a reverse option for a rear receiver hitch. As its name suggests, you can connect a front mount hitch to your vehicle’s front. Furthermore, this hitch has a receiver slot to attach different accessories.
Well, undoubtedly, this hitch will not be too versatile and practical enough for towing. And if you want to tow a trailer with your vehicle, it’s obvious you cannot use it for that purpose.
So, generally, a front mount hitch will only come in use when you want to carry snow plows or some spare tires with your vehicle. In addition, if your work involves off-roading, you might consider getting this hitch because it can easily carry a winch. Furthermore, there is no problem having two hitches in your vehicle at the rear and one in the front.
However, keep your vehicle’s weight limit in mind as you use these hitches together to tow some weight. If the weight is too high, there are chances you may run into some big trouble.
Gooseneck Hitch
| Type Of Hitch | Function | Towing Capacity | Availability |
| Gooseneck Hitch | You can couple it to a gooseneck trailer | ~38,000 lbs. | Only for pickup trucks |
A gooseneck hitch is somewhat similar to a fifth-wheel hitch. You can fit this hitch into your truck’s bed. The towing capacity of a gooseneck hitch is the same as a 5th wheel hitch, i.e., around 30,000 lbs.
This truck hitch is less bulky and doesn’t take up too much vertical space. So, this means you’ll have more freedom to place stuff in your truck bed as you tow with it. However, as a general reminder, try not to exceed your vehicle’s weight limit.
Another thing is that you don’t require a gooseneck hitch if you only want to tow RVs or motorhomes around. This hitch is mainly used for agricultural vehicles such as livestock movers, trailers, etc.
A gooseneck hitch working is quite similar to how a vertical ball hitch works. You must simply slide your trailer over the ball to make it functional. After that, you can tow whatever you want with that hitch. However, make sure to check for locks and confirm if everything is connected fine.
Various Trailer Hitch Classes And Their Application
Every hitch that we mentioned previously is classified under different classes. There are generally five classes of receiver hitches, each varying based on their receiver tube size and towing capacity. The capacity and the receiver tube size will increase as we move on to the hitches with higher numbers. So, these hitches classes are as follows:
- Class I
- Class II
- Class III
- Class IV
- Class V
Let’s take the help of a table to compare these different hitch classes, varying in receiver size and towing capacity:
| Hitch Class | Applications | GTW Capacity (lbs.) | Receiver Size | TW Capacity (lbs.) |
| Class I | Crossovers and Cars | ~ 2,000 | 1-1/4-inch | ~ 200 |
| Class II | Crossovers, minivans, and cars | ~ 3,500 | 1-1/4-inch | ~ 350 |
| Class III | Crossovers, trucks, SUVs, and vans | ~ 8,000 | 2-inch | ~ 800 |
| Class IV | SUVs and Trucks | ~ 10,000 | 2-inch | ~ 1,000 |
| Class V – Xtra Duty | SUVs and Trucks | ~ 16,000 to 17,000 | 2-inch | ~ 2,400 to 2,550 |
| Class V – Commercial Duty | Chassis and dually cab trucks | ~ 18,000 to 20,000 | 2-1/2-inch | ~ 2,700 |
Understanding Different Trailer Hitch Classes
So, now you are a bit familiar with various trailer hitch classes. However, we would like to give a general overview to help you decide which hitch class will be best for towing your vehicle. So, in this section, let’s go through each hitch class individually so you can make a more informed choice.
Knowing Class I Hitches
Being part of the class 1 hitches, these hitches are not meant for heavy towing. You can use this hitch class for light towing, in most cases, for car towing. In addition, class 1 hitch, compared to other classes, is the smallest in size.
You’ll usually find these hitches with a receiver size of 1 1/4 inches. Furthermore, the towing capacity of this hitch class is around 2,000 lbs, with a maximum tongue weight of around 200 lbs. So, if you simply want to tow crossovers or cars, this hitch class may work for you.
However, if heavy load towing is involved, it is highly recommended not to use this hitch as it will fail to perform the job.
- Weight Rating: Around 2,000 lbs. GTW
- Receiver Size: 1-1/4-inch
Knowing Class II Hitches
Just like Class 1 hitches, Class 2 hitches are also designed for lightweight towing. However, this hitch class can tow a slightly heavier load compared to class I hitches. While the Class 1 will struggle to tow a minivan, the Class 2 hitch can easily tow it.
The receiver size of the Class 2 hitch carries is 1 1/4 inches. In addition, the maximum towing limit of this class hitch is around 3,500 lbs. Furthermore, their tongue weight limit is 350 lbs.
- Weight Rating: Around 3,500 lbs. GTW
- Receiver Size: 1-1/4-inch
Class I vs. Class II Hitch
The receiver size of both classes is 1 1/4 inches. However, the primary difference that makes Class 1 and Class 2 hitches different from each other is their towing capacity. Undoubtedly, both these hitches are made for the purpose of lightweight towing. But, when the Class 1 hitch can only pull 2,000 lbs, the Class 2 hitch is known to carry 3,500 lbs. So, this makes Class 2 hitches a better choice if you only want to perform lightweight towing.
Knowing Class III Hitches
Now, the third class of hitches, i.e., Class 3 hitches, are known to be the most versatile and common hitch. You can use this hitch class to pull trucks and SUVs.
This hitch can easily tow up to 8,000 lbs and has a maximum tongue weight of 800 lbs. So, with this hitch class having such potential, you can use it for almost all types of towing, leaving campers, and RVs. In addition, this hitch class gives you space for using various accessories because it contains a 2-inch receiver.
- Weight Rating: Around 8,000 lbs. GTW
- Receiver Size: 2 inch
Knowing Class IV Hitch
You can use Class IV hitches to tow SUVs and trucks. However, this hitch class will not work if you want to pull crossover vehicles. Also, this hitch has a 2-inch receiver, meaning it can perform most of the towing jobs.
Furthermore, the Class 4 hitch can tow around 10,000 lbs and has a tongue weight of 1,000 lbs. This hitch class is well-suited for commercial purposes rather than recreation towing.
- Weight Rating: Around 10,000 lbs. GTW
- Receiver Size: 2 inch
Class III vs. Class IV Hitch
If we compare size, the Class 4 hitches are significantly bigger than the Class 3 hitches. However, Class IV hitches aren’t that common, while Class III is one of the most used hitch classes. Moreover, the towing capacity of Class 3 hitches is around 8,000, while Class 4 hitches can pull up to 10,000.
Now, talking about the maximum tongue capacity, the Class 4 hitch has a limit of around 1,000 lbs, while the Class 3 hitch limit is 800 lbs. Furthermore, they have the same receiver size, i.e., 2 inches.
Knowing Class V Hitch
The Class 5 hitches are available in two types, i.e., Xtra Duty and Commercial Duty. You can use the Xtra Duty hitch for recreational purposes. On the other hand, a Commercial Duty hitch is recommended for commercial use.
- Weight Rating: Around 20,000 lbs. GTW
- Receiver Size: 2 inches 0r 2 1/2 inch
Class V Xtra Duty hitches have two-inch size receivers. In addition, the maximum towing limit of this class hitch is 18,000 lbs. Moreover, the tongue limit of this hitch is around 2,400 lbs.
Class V Commercial Duty hitches, on the other hand, have 2 1/2 inch size receivers. In addition, this hitch class can pull up to 20,000 lbs. Furthermore, the tongue limits this hitch carries is around 2,700 lbs.
Class IV vs. Class V Hitch
Class 5 hitches come in a large variety compared to Class 4 hitches. In addition, Class 5 hitches’ towing capacity is up to 20,000 lbs. And different hitches also have different receiver sizes, including 2-inch and 2 1/2-inch.
Compared to that, Class 4 hitches only have a 2-inch receiver. Furthermore, Class 4 hitches’ towing capacity is almost double of Class 4 hitches.
What Makes 5th Wheel Hitch And Gooseneck Hitches Different From Each Other?
There is general confusion regarding what makes gooseneck hitches different from 5th-wheel hitches. As both these hitches have the same towing capacity and are connected to the same place, it’s easy to get confused about which one you should buy.
However, don’t worry; we will explain the difference between these hitches so you know which is best for your vehicle. Firstly, gooseneck and 5th wheel hitches have similar maximum towing capacity, i.e., 30,000 lbs.
Gooseneck hitches are probably the best if you’re looking for a simple installation. You can easily install this hitch with accessories and a drill into your truck bed. But once you finish the installation, you’ll find it easy to use.
However, gooseneck hitches have one downside: they offer a varied towing experience, which is mostly not a smooth experience. In addition, this hitch produces a lot of sounds, making it annoying on longer journeys. Moreover, a lot of equipment cannot work on Gooseneck Hitches.
As mentioned, you’ll only need a Gooseneck hitch to tow heavy farm machinery or other agricultural uses. Furthermore, you also have the option to turn these hitches into 5th-wheel hitches. However, it can be a bit of a difficult process to do yourself.
Now, if we talk about 5th wheel hitches, you can use them to tow recreational vehicles such as heavier trailers, RVS, etc. This hitch offers a smoother towing experience compared to Gooseneck hitches. In addition, fifth-wheel hitches don’t produce too much sound.
However, the downside of these hitches is they are quite expensive and difficult to install in a vehicle. Also, remember, this hitch takes quite a bit of backspace off your truck.
Conclusion
There are various types of hitch receivers, trailer hitches, and classes. All of them have the primary job of improving your towing experience. Now, since you have a basic overview of all these hitches types and classes, choosing the right hitch for your vehicle will be easier. However, before purchasing any of these hitches, talk to the provider about the features, towing capacity, and other things that matter for towing.
At Bills Mobile Hitch And Tow Bar Installation, we ensure our customers buy the right hitches and towbars. That’s why our installation services include all these, so you don’t have to buy any accessories separately. We’ll choose the perfect hitch receiver for your vehicle and install it quickly. Our team of professionals is always ready to help you with anything related to towing. Contact us at (623) 210-5427 to call in our professional for a quick and affordable hitch installation.