Which Capacity is Overall Capacity for 2016 Subaru Outback, the Hitch or the Owners Manual Capacity

Updated 04/05/2016 | Published 04/02/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

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$207.95

Question:

Im confused. In looking at 2016 Outback 2.5i or Chevy Equinox the towing specs give 2700lbs/200lb tongue or 1500lbs/? tongue. But you answer - Trailer Hitch Recommendation For 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon Question: I have ordered a new 2016 Outback, Ive seen hitches that require drilling and an Eco hitch that does not. pros and cons ? I did not notice any non-drilling options on etrailer? Thank you in advance. asked by: Doug J Expert Reply: You are correct that all of the trailer hitches that we currently offer for your 2016 Subaru Outback will require drilling to install the hitch. The Hidden Hitch and Draw-Tite trailer hitches require that an access hole be drilled in order to fishwire the installation hardware, and then the hitch is installed through pre-existing holes in the frame. The Curt trailer hitches require that an existing hole be enlarged to allow for the hardware to be fishwired, and then the hitch is installed in one existing hole and a second hole is drilled to install the hitch. Even considering the no-drill Eco hitch you referenced, the trailer hitch I recommend for your 2016 Outback is the Hidden Hitch Trailer Hitch Receiver, Class III # 87568. This trailer hitch will require minimum drilling for installation, and will use existing holes for the installation of the hitch. The # 87568 hitch features a 2 inch receiver, and offers a gross trailer weight capacity of 4,000 pounds with a maximum tongue weight of 600 pounds. After watching an installation video of the Eco hitch, which requires removing the entire back bumper fascia and the steel bumper to install the hitch, I feel that even with the drilling the Hidden Hitch # 87568 has an easier installation process. The Hidden Hitch also offers a higher capacity. I have attached an installation video of the Hidden Hitch # 87568 for you, as well as linked the installation instructions for this hitch. expert reply by: Victoria B Separately, your hitch finder gives 3500 lbs for the Equinox How does that figure? What do I base information on, when looking for a small camper to tow? And what vehicle to buy? not a Colorado, as my son pushes for What other modifications might be needed to reach those higher tow capacities? Regards,

asked by: Bob N

Helpful Expert Reply:

Hitches and vehicles often times will have different towing capacities. The key is to always use the lowest figure in the setup as the overall capacity as that would be the weakest link. So if you went with a higher capacity hitch on either your 2016 Subaru Outback like part # 75673 or on your Equinox you would have to go by what is listed in the owners manual as the overall capacity if it is less.

I don't know what year Equinox you have otherwise I would recommend a hitch for it as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C