Does Using Additional Washers to Install a Hitch on a 2004 Subaru Outback Affect Capacity.

Published 02/10/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(152)

$449.26

Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(65)

$292.34

Question:

The Curt C12270 hitch has been documented as not aligning properly with the right rear tiedown point of some Outback wagons, requiring a stack of washers or a spacer in addition to those included to take up the gap. It appears that Subaru changed the tiedown geometry at some point, bringing it on center with the frame rail instead of nearly flush with the inboard edge of the rail as shown in your installation video. My tiedown is in the revised location so I will have a gap to fill. Do you know what impact this modification will have to the load capacity of the hitch? Im assuming this issue will also arise on Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch models since they use the same tie down as an anchor point.

asked by: Jonathan K

Expert Reply:

I spoke to my contact at Curt and he said that as long as you install enough washers for the attachment point to the tow hook so that the hitch sits solidly against it the capacity of the hitch won't be reduced at all.

The issue would be the same for the Draw Tite Hitch part # 36284.

expert reply by: Jameson C