Difference Between Class IV and Class V Trailer Hitch
Updated 11/18/2024 | Published 07/22/2016 >
Question:
What is the difference between a class IV hitch and a class V hitch? Thanks
asked by: James H
Expert Reply:
The big differences between a Class IV and a Class V hitch are the capacities and the opening size. Class IV is going to be a 2 inch hitch opening that has tongue weights typically up to 1,200 lbs and total trailer weight of 12,000 lbs. For a Class V hitch the capacities bump up to 20,000 lbs for the total trailer weight and 2,000 lbs tongue weight. Typically this hitch will have a 2-1/2 inch hitch opening but there are some 2 inch sizes available.
For more info on the differences between hitch sizes check out the help article I attached.

Michael
11/18/2024
So if your hitch weight is 1200 pound the class Iv hitch can handle 1200 should you have a safety margin and maybe bump up to a class v hitch?

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Gary S.
3/3/2020
Hello, when mounting a tow hitch to the frame of p/u truck are the mounting hole configurations the same on class III, IV and V trailer hitches, ie interchangeable or are they OEM driven to fit specific makes and models? Please advise, thank you!