Can you Use the Brophy Hitch Extender to Tow a Travel Trailer

Question:

Will Brophy hr 26 work for my problem? I have f250 has 2 1/2 receiver. I have 30 ft travel trailer 8000 lbs. When backing and turning i hit the back of the truck. I have a weight distribution hitch . It looks like the hr26 will work. Just concerned with the weight restrictions I see posted in the specs. Thank you

asked by: Al B

Expert Reply:

It looks like the Brophy Hitch Reducer and Extender, part # HR26, could work for your application based on the numbers.

However, this isn't something I recommend for you since the addition of an extender not only reduces your towing capacity, it also adds more sway than you want with a 30-ft. trailer.

Instead, it would be better to increase the length of your weight distribution's shank (or the length of your ball coupler if your WD hitch attaches with a coupler). A good one is the Blue Ox SwayPro Shank, part # BXW4002, is 9" long with a max tongue weight of 1500 pounds and max towing weight of 15,000. It has a maximum rise of 10-1/2" and maximum drop of 4-1/2". It fits a 2" receiver, so if you couple it with the Blue Ox Hitch Reducer Sleeve, part # BX88187, you can use it with your hitch. I've linked to a video reviews of both of these.

If your WD hitch has a coupler, then you can simply use a longer ball mount to get that extra length. I've linked to a list of our ball mounts for you to compare.

If you let me know which distribution hitch you have, I can help find the best solution for you.

expert reply by: Kef G