Question:
I have a 2015 Subaru Forester and am looking for a hitch and all necessary additional parts to pull a U-Haul 5X8 trailer cross country. What are your recommendations?
asked by: Tom M
Expert Reply:
I'd recommend a Curt Class III hitch, as Curt manufactures a nice product and they do a great job on their durable powder coat finish. I'd recommend either the # C13144 which is a standard or # CU64FR which is a concealed hitch. Once installed, the # C13144 would be fully visible and the # CU64FR would have the crossbar concealed with only the receiver and the safety chain loops visible. The hitches both have the same capacity, but the concealed version requires a much more extensive installation, as you can see in the linked installation videos. I'll link to a photo showing what the hitches look like when installed.
In addition to the hitch, you'll need a trailer wiring harness like # 118467, a ball mount like # 2753 and a trailer ball like # 19260 for a 1-7/8 or # 63845 for a 2 inch ball.
Small U-Haul trailers will usually use a surge coupler, which means you won't need a brake controller.
I've linked to install videos for the hitches and trailer wiring harness mentioned above, as well as links to the written instructions.
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs
Draw-Tite Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 2-3/4" Rise, 4" Drop - 9" Long - 7.5K
2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 1" Rise, 2-1/4" Drop - 7-5/8" Long - 7,500 lbs