More of this Feature • Terminology • Hitches • Safety First

Join the Discussion "If I tow this behind my RV with an "A" frame will it hurt the transmission"? Bob Perry (BOBP750)

Related Resources • Trailer Hitches

From Other Guides • Towed or Toad? • Fifth Wheel Trailers • How to Back a Camper • Test Drive a GMC Sierra 4x4 SLT

Elsewhere on the Web • How manufactures determine towing rates • Towing rates for 1999 and 2000 trucks and SUVs

Hitches are rated as follows:  

Legend: C = Class / GTW = Gross Trailer Weight / TW = Tongue Weight 

There are two types of hitches: weight carrying and weight distributing. 

Weight Carrying hitches: These hitches attach to the frame of the towing vehicle and provide a connection point between the towing vehicle and whatever you are towing. Weight carrying hitches support all of the trailer tongue weight so they are best suited for small to medium sized loads.

Weight Distributing hitches: These hitches are recommended for heavier trailers. Weight Distributing hitches will even out the trailer load between the wheels of the tow vehicle and the wheels of the trailer. You will experience improved steering and brake control. 

Bumper Hitches

• The bumper/frame hitch is also good for light towing, however it has one serious drawback: It tends to reduce the energy-absorbing benefits of most modern bumpers.
• The step bumper also relies on solid attachment points on the frame. Beware of aftermarket step bumpers that have no frame attachment points.
• Another undesirable hitch is the bumper-mount hitch. Most automotive manufacturers do not recommend using this hitch, because modern bumpers aren’t designed for towing.

Receiver Hitches

• The ball mount (also called ball platform) is removable when the hitch is not being used. This leaves the hitch's opening about even with your bumper.
• The most popular style of hitch and is what you see on most trucks, SUV's, RV's and vans.
• Best choice when using bike racks, ski racks, cargo racks.
• Available with two size openings, 1 1/4" and 2".
• Class I and II receiver style hitches can only be used for towing as a weight carrying hitch.
• Class III and IV receiver style hitches can be used either as a weight carrying hitch or as a weight distributing hitch when a weight distribution system is added. 
• Receivers can also be installed on the front of your vehicle to make launching and recovering boats easier, to attach bike racks while you are towing a trailer or to mount a winch.

Gooseneck Hitches / 5th Wheel Hitches

Fifth Wheel Hitches and Gooseneck Hitches are special hitches mounted through the bed of your truck to brackets or the vehicle's frame.

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