Hitch Extension Recommendation to Allow Tailgate to be Down When Towing Travel Trailer

Updated 10/27/2025 | Published 02/11/2018

Question:

I am wondering if I can use an extension with a travel trailer so that I can put a golf cart in my short bed truck with the tailgate down so I dont hit my travel trailer tonge

asked by: Mark P

Expert Reply:

If you have a 2-1/2 inch hitch installed on your truck then you can use a hitch extender like the Curt part # C45048 which can give you from 24 to 34 inches of extension. You should note that when you use this extender the towing capacity is 6,000 when used at 24 inch length or 4,500 lbs when used at 34 inch length.

If your truck does not have an 2-1/2 inch hitch installed on it email me back and let me know what you have and I'll see if I can come up with a hitch solution that will work for you.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Mandi

6/7/2020

We want a hitch extender to pull a 25 foot travel trailer and have the tail gate down having the ATV on the bed truck. 2 inch hitch

Chris R.

6/11/2020

I've linked all of our available 2" hitch extenders below. I'm not sure exactly how much length you need so you'll just want to look through the selection for the best option. Please note that any extension like this will significantly reduce the capacity of your hitch (typically by 50 percent) and add instability. If you're able to get the necessary length, a better option is with a longer ball mount such as the Draw-Tite # 80232.

Helpful Links

dept-pg-hitch_adapters-sf-hitch_extender-pc-fits_2_inch_hitch.aspx

Jw H.

10/25/2025

I have a Motorhome that I want to flat tow my Honda CRV+ My Electric bike rack. I need to extend my hitch where it's possible to mount the bike rack on the back of my Motorhome...