Using a Hitch Extender When Towing Small John Boat

Updated 04/18/2020 | Published 04/17/2020

Question:

Hello, I drive a 2013 AWD Honda CR-V. I installed a trailer hitch receiver order 108742324. Class III 2 inch. I am towing a small 12 ft Jon boat with an outboard motor, trolling motor, battery, etc. I also bought a 12 inch hitch extender. I was wondering if this is safe to drive for long distances with. I bought the hitch extension because I have a very tight garage to back into and I don’t want to jack knife the boat trailer.

asked by: Jesse

Expert Reply:

So here's the deal with hitch extenders. Using an extender like the # C45791 will lower the hitch tongue weight capacity (maximum allowable weight bearing down on the hitch) by half, because the extender moves the load rearward by 8 inches which increases the leverage placed on the hitch and its attachment points to the vehicle. Your hitch will have an ID sticker on it that will list its tongue weight capacity. Divide that by 2, and you'll have the tongue weight capacity not to exceed when using the extender.

As long as you don't exceed that 50% capacity, you'll be just fine. However, you could also only use the hitch extender when maneuvering the trailer into and out of the garage and not use it when you're towing, which is what I'd recommend you do.

If you don't know the tongue weight of your trailer, I've linked an article that lists a few ways to determine it.

expert reply by: Mike L