Hitch Extender Recommendation for 7000 lb Camper

Updated 05/13/2020 | Published 05/12/2020

Question:

My trailer is 7,000 lbs. Tong weight is 700lbs. OF course I have stablizers etc that take the weight off the tongue. I need to extend my travel trailer away from my truck. Seem ok with you adding the ST 18 extender. How much is it? I see two prices?

asked by: Craig W

Expert Reply:

An extender like the # ST18 does provide a handy way to provide additional space between the truck and the trailer. The only down side is that using this extender will decrease the towing and tongue weight capacity of your truck's hitch by 33%. This extender itself can handle 7000 lbs towing and 700 lb of tongue weight, but your maximum capacity will be limited by the component with the lowest capacity.

Given that your hitch would need a huge towing capacity in order handle the trailer while using the extender (which isn't likely), using an extender such as this wouldn't be a good solution for you.

If you currently have a 2-1/2 inch hitch on your truck, the Reese # RP45292 when cut down to a 24 inch length would work, and if used with your weight distribution setup, would offer an 8000 lb towing/ 800 lb tongue weight capacity. This extender will not reduce your hitch capacity. This solution would be your best bet, but as I said it requires a 2-1/2 inch hitch. If you don't already have a 2-1/2 inch hitch, I can recommend one if you reply with the year, make and model of your truck.

Current pricing is shown on the product description page which I've linked for you.

expert reply by: Mike L