Is There A Standard Size for a 2 Inch Receiver

Updated 05/15/2024 | Published 09/05/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Hitch Extender For 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver 14" Long

(368)

$120.61

Curt Hitch Extender for 2" Trailer Hitches - 14" Long

(697)

$81.72

Malone Anti-Rattle HitchLock System

(659)

$20.58

Question:

In my attempt to find a 12inch extension 2 for a Polaris Ranger with a 4 inch rise I found several differences in the stock size of hitches I own. Is there a standard by which receivers and hitches are manufactured. The Polaris receiver is 2 1/32inch . A no name receiver I own is 2inch and fits fine, but is too short. A Draw Tite is 2 1/32inch and fits but I know the slightest bit of rust or dirt will cause problems. Any of my 2inch Reese hitches are 2 3/64inch and will not fit without modification which I do not want to add slop to other uses. This is more of a curiosity to me at this point as it appears I will have to manufacture my own, but I would think there would be a standard. Thanks for your help.

asked by: Robert C

Expert Reply:

As you've discovered, a 2 inch receiver doesn't always measure exactly two inches by two inches. There is a manufacturing tolerance involved that allows the receiver to be a few hundredths of an inches larger or smaller than 2 inches, but still be within tolerance. Due to the fact that the connection between a hitch receiver and the shank of a ball mount or hitch mounted accessory isn't meant to be a precision fit, the tolerances are generous.

These tolerances are common in manufactured products of all kinds. If the wobbling or rattling of the hitch accessory concerns you, there are various anti-rattle devices available to reduce the movement of the accessory in the receiver. The Malone Anti-Rattle HitchLock is a popular choice with this particular extender, and works well.

Keep in mind that using an extender like # C45795 will lower the tongue weight and towing capacity of the hitch by half.

expert reply by: Mike L

Phillip

5/15/2024

Creating a custom hitch. If I purchased 2-1/2" x 3/16 wall square tubing, what size hitch would I need? Should I use 1/4" wall material instead. Not sure what material factory tolerances area on finished tubing.