Using Hitch Extender to Increase Turning Radius of V-Nose Trailer Towed Behind RV

Question:

I have a holiday rambler RV and I pull a 16foot vnose cargo trailer fused for MX racing. The nose is too close when I turn, so would a receiver extended work? I use a 3inch drop to keep it level. The tounge weight Is very heavy - Id guess 300lbs.

asked by: Kean R

Helpful Expert Reply:

The first thing you'll want to do is confirm the tongue weight of your trailer. I'll link you to an FAQ article that explains how to do this.

You CAN use an extender, see link, but keep in mind an extender will lower the tongue weight capacity of your hitch by 50 percent. The tongue weight capacity represents the maximum amount of downward force that can safely be exerted on your hitch. If the trailer tongue weight is less than half the tongue weight capacity of the hitch, you can use an extender with no problem.

How much extra length did you need? Maybe an extended ball mount would work better for you. The # C45230 ball mount is 11-1/8 inches long, measured from the ball hole to the furthest hitch pin hole. The ball mount features a 3-5/8 inch drop. Since the ball mount is all one piece it WILL NOT lower the tongue weight capacity of the hitch. The ball mount has a 7,500 lb capacity. If that's enough capacity for your V nose trailer, that's what I'd recommend.

expert reply by: Mike L