Recommended Trailer Hitch for a 2017 Subaru Forester to Tow a Boat

Published 07/26/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(146)

$191.88

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1382)

$95.81

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(3595)

$40.44

Question:

I am going to tow a 16 foot boat weighing 1100 lbs including the trailer and would like to have your recommendation for which class of hitch to use. I have been using a Class 3 hitch on my 2007 Forester but wanted to know if a Class 2 would be adequate. Thanks

asked by: Gene C

Expert Reply:

A Class II Hitch for your 2007 Forester would have more than enough strength to tow your 1,100 lb. boat. We only offer one Class II hitch for your vehicle and it is the Curt Class II Hitch # C12100. This hitch has a GTW capacity of 3500 lbs. and a TW capacity of 350 lbs., however, your 2017 Subaru Forester has a GTW capacity of 1,500 lbs. so you will be limited by the towing capacity of your vehicle and the Class II hitch will be adequate.

However, if you are interested in using your hitch for a bike rack or cargo rack, I do not recommend the Curt Hitch for your vehicle. This is because Curt requires the use of stabilizing straps # 18050 when carrying all non trailer loads (cargo racks, bike racks etc.) to stay within their warranty requirements. However, the Draw-Tite Class III Hitch # 75876 does not require stabilizing straps when carrying non trailer loads and it is still capable to tow your boat. Also, more accessories are offered for a Class III Hitch compared to a Class II Hitch.

To complete your towing package, you will need a wiring harness, hitch ball, ball mount and pin and clip, if you do not already have these.

For a wiring harness I recommend the Curt Wiring Harness # C56040. For a ball mount, hitch ball and pin and clip, I recommend the etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches # 989900. this kit comes with two ball mounts, a 1-7/8" Ball and 2" Ball and pin and clip.

I attached an installation video for the Draw-Tite Hitch on a 2016 Subaru Forester which is the same installation process for your 2017 Forester. I also attached a review video of the ball mount kit and a help article on how to choose the right trailer hitch class.