Whether you're installing your first trailer hitch, replacing worn towing parts, or upgrading your towing setup, we'll help you find trailer hitches, hitch parts, towing accessories, wiring, brake controllers, and other equipment that fit your vehicle and trailer.Not sure where to start? Choose the part of your towing setup you're working on below.
See how other neighbors installed trailer hitches, brake controllers, wiring, suspension upgrades, and towing accessories on vehicles like yours.
Find the Right Towing Gear Without the Guesswork
A safe towing setup is about more than choosing the right trailer hitch. Your hitch, wiring, ball mount, brake controller, suspension, and towing accessories all need to work together. At etrailer, we install and test these products every day so you can see how they fit, how they perform, and what to expect before you buy.With over 75 years of helping neighbors, 35,000+ installations completed, and more than 1 million photos and videos, we've worked with these towing systems firsthand and can help you build the right setup for your vehicle and trailer.
Common Towing Upgrades
Every towing setup is different, but many neighbors upgrade beyond the basics for better safety, comfort, and control. Common towing upgrades include weight distribution hitches for improved stability, brake controllers for trailers with electric brakes, suspension enhancements to reduce truck sag, upgraded trailer wiring, towing mirrors for better visibility, and hitch accessories that make towing easier every time you hook up.
What equipment do I need to tow a trailer?
The equipment you need depends on your trailer and tow vehicle, but most towing setups include a trailer hitch, ball mount, hitch ball, trailer wiring, and safety chains. Heavier trailers may also require a brake controller, weight distribution hitch, suspension enhancements, or towing mirrors.
How do I choose the right trailer hitch?
Start with your vehicle’s year, make, and model. A custom-fit hitch is designed around your frame and mounting points, so you don’t have to guess. Use the Fitguide to see only the hitches engineered for your vehicle.
How do I pick the right ball mount?
Measure from the ground to the top of your hitch receiver, then measure from the ground to the bottom of your trailer coupler. The difference tells you the rise or drop needed to tow level.
What is the difference between a fifth-wheel hitch and a gooseneck hitch?
Both mount over the rear axle of a truck but connect differently. Fifth-wheel hitches use a kingpin and are common for RV towing because they provide a stable ride. Gooseneck hitches use a ball connection and are often preferred for heavy-duty trailers due to tighter turning clearance.For a detailed comparison check out Gooseneck vs. 5th-Wheel Trailers to find out which one is right for you.
Do I need a brake controller for my trailer?
If your trailer has electric or electric-over-hydraulic brakes, yes. A brake controller syncs your trailer’s braking with your vehicle.
What parts do I need to replace on a towing setup?
Trailer hitches rarely need replacement, but ball mounts, hitch pins, wiring connectors, trailer plugs, locks, and other towing accessories can wear over time. If you're replacing part of your towing setup, make sure the replacement is compatible with both your hitch and trailer.Need Help Choosing?
Tell us what you’re towing and what you’re driving. Call, chat, or send us a message, and we'll help you build the right towing setup before you hit the road.
