Trailer Hitch Extension for 2009 GMC Sierra with 2-1/2 Inch Hitch Towing a Boat with In-bed Camper  

Question:

Expert Reply:

First, the Ford 2-1/2 inch hitch has be known to have some compatibility issues with some accessories. The problem is that the hitch receiver has more rounded corners than a lot of accessories that have more square corners.

In the event you run into this issue, what you can do is gently and carefully remove some of the powder coating around the accessory shank until it fits. Do not remove any metal. This will weaken the accessory.

The extension length you need is going to be based on how much the camper is going to overhang the end of the bed. Most likely, you will need an extension that clears the tailgate when it is down. To determine the length you need, measure the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole on the truck straight out to the distance required to clear the back of the camper.

An extension about the same length should work well. Remember that you will also be putting a ball mount in the end of the extension. The end of the Titan extension is 2 inches. The extension # RP45018 that you have referenced is 41 to 48 inches long. There is also a model that is 24 to 34 inches long, # RP45292. I recommend going with the shorter model if possible.

The issue is weight capacity. The shorter model, when used at the 24 inch length, has a capacity of 6,000 pounds. At the 34 inches the capacity is only 4,500 pounds. The longer extension at 41 inches is rated for 5,000 pounds and at 48 inches only 4,000 pounds. Given that you have a large bass boat, chances are you could exceed these capacities.

If the distance you need to clear the camper is not as long as to necessitate a Titan extension, a long ball mount may also be a possibility. The longest ball mount for a 2-1/2 inch receiver we have is 10 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the center of the ball hole, like # RP45323.

Another possibility is to use a reducer sleeve, # C45405, and a longer 2 inch ball mount. The reducer sleeve may also need to have some powder coat removed to fit properly. The longest ball mount would then measure 16 inches from hitch pin hole center to ball hole center like # EA40. This ball mount has a 8,000 pound capacity. You will need to see if this drop/rise will work for you.

For a higher capacity, you would have to go a little shorter. Ball mount # 4285 has a 12,000 pound capacity but measures 12 inches from the hitch pin hole to the ball hole. So you do have several options depending on the clearance you need and the weight of the boat and trailer.

expert reply by: Michael H

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