Comparing Class III Receiver for 2012 Subaru Outback

Updated 05/23/2012 | Published 05/21/2012

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1019)

$207.95

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

(92)

$222.85

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(666)

$16.05

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

(2621)

$11.37

2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 7,500 lbs

(1358)

$12.62

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(3413)

$41.72

Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 10-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs

(3843)

$25.47

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitch - Flush - 2-5/8" Span - Stainless Steel

(1306)

$33.19

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span

(895)

$13.90

Question:

I have a 2012 Subaru Outback wagon. I want to install a 2inch receiver hitch that uses the existing holes in the frame and doesnt require a support strap for a bike rack like Curt. Does the Draw-Tite meet my requirements? Does it extend any closer to the bumper?

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

Draw-Tite #75673 has 7 inch distance between the receiver hitch pin hole and the furthest rearward portion of the rear bumper when installed on a 2011 model Subaru Outback Wagon.

Although the hitch will attach to the vehicle using existing holes in the frame, a 1-1/8 inch hole saw will be needed to drill an access hole in the frame member on both the driver and passenger side. This hole is necessary in order to feed installation hardware into the frame as shown in the install instructions and install video I will link you to. The heat shield under the rear of the vehicle will need to be temporarily removed and trimmed as outlined in the instructions and video.

As you can see by the install video for the Curt # 13390, the installation is a bit different, but will still require some drilling and heat shield trimming. As the video shows, the receiver opening will be closer to the edge of the bumper but as you correctly stated, the Curt warranty stipulates that the stabilizing strap like # 18050 be used for non-trailer loads like a bike rack or cargo carrier.

If you were planning on towing with your Outback, you might also need the following:

Trailer wiring harness, part # C56040
Ball mount, part # D-4
1-7/8 inch trailer ball, part # 19260
2 inch trailer ball, part # 19247
Pin and clip, part # PC3
Locking stainless-steel hitch pin, part # e98882