Question:
2005 Toyota Corolla CE. I want to install a trailer hitch for very light local towing such as bike rack,etc. Also for protection from getting hit directly in the rear bumper I,d like the draw bar to be up and out a little for more protection. Is that the situation where you have the option on a rise or a lower. Would the typical trailer attach either way? thanks for your advice.
asked by: James M
Helpful Expert Reply:
The trailer hitches that fit your 2005 Toyota Corolla are all Class I hitches, and with that class of hitch, the manufacturers have a specific ball mount which is required, and it must be in a particular position.
For example, I recommend the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # 24913 for your 2005 Corolla, and the required ball mount is the Draw-Tite Drawbar # 3593, which must be in the rise position only, as you can see by the cut out of the linked installation instructions I added. This means it will be up and out like you wanted, though I do have to say that a ball mount isn't designed as a protective means for any type of collision.
With this ball mount you will also need a hitch ball that fits, which is 1-7/8" Hitch Ball # 19256 or 2" Hitch Ball # 19258 (depending on the size of the ball your trailer coupler attaches to). To power your trailer lights you will also need wiring, the T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # 55542.
Since you mentioned a bike rack, you should note that a Class I hitch requires a Class I compatible bike rack, and for that a great option is the Swagman XC 2-Bike Rack # S64650 which is our most popular bike rack because it combines quality, dependability and cost-effectiveness. I have added a link to a video review of this rack as well as a link to our entire selection of Class I bike racks.
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-9/16" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs
Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
Draw-Tite Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitch - 2-1/8" Rise, 2-3/4" Drop - 6-5/8" Long - 2K