How Long of a Hitch Extension Can be Used with Tow Bar

Updated 10/08/2019 | Published 10/07/2019

Products Featured in This Question

TorkLift SuperTruss Hitch Extension for SuperHitch Trailer Hitch Receivers - 21" Long

(396)

$675.17

Blue Ox Avail Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 10,000 lbs

(906)

$952.89

Blue Ox Hitch Extender for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 12" Extension

(104)

$137.83

Question:

I have a pre-buy question. I have a 2014 Ram 3500 HD Laramie with the Asian transmission. It has the factory 2.5” hitch receiver. I am looking at truck campers. The smallest would have a 2ft overhang and the larger Lance has a 40” overhang. I am wanting to tow a toad, which is a 2016 Jeep JKU which has a curb weight of 4300 lbs. There would be little tongue weight because of the four wheels but the Jeep with accessories and some gear loaded in would tip the scales between 5000 and 6000 lbs. I would be using a Blue Ox or Road Master tow bar mounted to D-ring adapter on the Jeep. What type of hitch extension would be best? Thanks

asked by: Matt M

Expert Reply:

Our tow bar/base plate kit manufacturers do not recommend using a hitch extender longer than 12 inches when flat towing since the added leverage stresses the vehicle hitch too much. For that Blue Ox does have the 12 inch extension part # BX88264 which has a 10,000 lb capacity.

The Blue Ox part # BX7420 would be a great tow bar to use as well since it has the capacity you'd need of 6,500 lbs and is one of the easiest to use solutions available.

expert reply by: Jameson C