Bumper Clearance Dimensions for Trailer Hitches on 2018 Jeep JL Wrangler Unlimited

Updated 04/05/2018 | Published 04/04/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(169)

$115.11

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(323)

$105.26

Question:

Hi. You list the following 3 hitches as being compatible with a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JLU: part numbers DT78MR, 36424, and C13392. For each of these hitches, I would like to know where the center of the hitch pin and the end of the hitch receiver tube will sit relative to the back edge of the bumper once installed. I would prefer not to have the hitch tube stick out beyond the back of the bumper, but also need to make sure my bike rack will fit extend beyond the spare tire once installed into the hitch. Thanks in advance for your help.

asked by: Dan M

Helpful Expert Reply:

I was able to go out to our warehouse to measure the 3 trailer hitches available that are confirmed to fit your 2018 Jeep JL Wrangler Unlimited. On each of them, I measured from the front mounting plate where it will attach to the back of your Jeep's frame, to the outer edge of the hitch receiver. You can take these measurements out from the back of your Jeep's frame where the hitch will attach to see exactly how far out each hitch receiver will sit in relation to the rear bumper.

On the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Class III Trailer Hitch Receiver # DT78MR, there is a distance of right at 6-1/2 inches from the front mounting plate to the edge of the receiver.

The Draw-Tite Class II Hitch Receiver #36424 has been discontinued and measures 6-1/4 inches from the mounting plate to the edge of the receiver. Also keep in mind that this is a Class II hitch with a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening, unlike the other two hitches that are Class III with a 2 inch receiver.

Finally, the Curt Class III Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13392 measures just a tad over 5-1/8 inches from the plate to the end of the receiver. This means this hitch will be the most recessed behind the rear bumper, making it a nice choice if you like a hidden design, but maybe not protruding quite far enough out to allow for hitch-mounted accessories to clear the spare tire.

I have attached installation instructions for all three hitches mentioned that you can also take a look at.

expert reply by: Chris R