How to Determine Correct Class I Drawbar for Trailer Hitch

Updated 08/28/2017 | Published 08/26/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitches - 5-3/8" Rise, 6" Drop - 5-9/16" Long - 2K

(2289)

$28.94

Draw-Tite Drawbar for 1-1/4" Hitch - 2-1/8" Rise, 2-3/4" Drop - 6-5/8" Long - 2K

(2337)

$42.07

1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 1-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 2,000 lbs

(3930)

$13.90

2" Hitch Ball - 3/4" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs

(3930)

$10.91

Curt Hitch Pin and Clip for 1-1/4" Hitches - 1/2" Diameter x 2" Span

(2955)

$3.53

Question:

what determines what type of Class 1 drawbar I need for my trailer hitch?

asked by: John M

Expert Reply:

Since you already know you need a Class I drawbar (which fit 1-1/4" receivers and have a capacity of 2,000 lbs), you'll just need to determine the rise or drop you need.

To do this, you'll want to make sure your tow vehicle and trailer are parked on level ground. Then measure from the ground to the top of the receiver opening on your tow vehicle, and measure from the ground to the bottom of the coupler on your trailer. If the height of your hitch receiver is greater than the height of the coupler, you need a drawbar with drop. If your coupler is higher than your receiver, you need a drawbar with rise.

For example, the Draw-Tite # 3593 offers a 2-1/8" rise or 2-3/4" drop, while the Curt # C45028 offers a 5-3/8" rise or 6" drop. If the drawbar you need does not have a pin and clip included, you would need one that is compatible with Class I drawbars # F-4. The only other thing you'll need is a hitch ball; since each of our Class I drawbars have a ball hole diameter of 3/4", you can choose from a 1-7/8" hitch ball # C40001 or a 2" hitch ball # C40018.

I've added a link to our page with each of our Class I drawbars for you, as well as links to video reviews of these products.