Recommended Class II Trailer Hitch for Towing Small Utility Trailer w/ 2008 Subaru Forester  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class II trailer hitch you referenced, part # C12038 has a 3500 lb towing/350 lb tongue weight capacity. If you'll only be using the hitch for towing a trailer, it should work just fine for you. However, if you're wanting to use the hitch as an attachment point for other hitch mounted accessories like a cargo carrier or a bike rack, it wouldn't be the best choice. Curt's warranty requirement state that all non-trailer loads need to use a stabilizing strap, like part # 18050. The bad news is that not every vehicle offers a good attachment point for the strap, especially if they have the spoiler or lip at the top of the rear hatch.

This is why I'd recommend going with the Draw-Tite Hitch # 36311 if you'll be using the hitch for anything other than towing a trailer. This hitch has the same towing capacity, but a slightly lower tongue weight capacity at 300 lbs.

According to my research, the trailer you mentioned has a dry weight of 750 lbs, and can handle a payload up to 2240 lbs for a total weight. According to my research, your Forester has a maximum towing capacity of 2400 lbs. So, long story short, as long as the trailer isn't fully loaded to capacity, your Forester should pull it just fine.

To complete your towing set-up, you'd also need the following:

A ball mount like # 36051, but make sure to account for rise or drop for your trailer
Trailer wiring harness with 4-pole trailer connector, part # 118461
1-7/8 inch trailer ball, part # 19256 -or-
2 inch trailer ball, part # 19258

If you'll be towing near capacity in a hilly or mountainous area, I'd also recommend a supplemental transmission cooler like part # D13501. A supplemental cooler would provide inexpensive protection for your transmission.

expert reply by: Mike L

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