Differences Between Class II and Class III Trailer Hitches

Updated 03/15/2016 | Published 03/13/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(192)

$200.49

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

(16)

$291.88

Question:

What is the exact difference between a class 2 and class 3 hitch for a 1996 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon? Is it strength of materials or design or both? Can I purchase fabrication drawings and specification specifics from you? Any help would be most appreciated . . Thanks,

asked by: George R

Expert Reply:

The biggest difference between a Class II hitch and a Class III is the size of the hitch opening. The Class II will have an opening that is 1-1/4 inch by 1-1/4 inch and lower capacities whereas the Class III will have a 2 inch by 2 inch opening with higher capacities. There aren't always Class III hitches available for every vehicle. For example your 1996 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon only has a Class II hitch available, part # C12009.

The Class III hitches are generally reserved for larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks. I attached a help article that covers the differences for you to check out as well.

Typically the availability of a Class III has more to do with the vehicle the hitch is designed to fit than the actual strength of the hitch. If you were to push a Class II hitch to failure it would more than likely be the attachment area for the hitch on the vehicle that would fail before the hitch.

Drawings aren't available for the hitches we carry either.

expert reply by: Jameson C