Upgrading to Class III Hitch for Towing 3000 lb Boat with 1997 Chevy S-10

Updated 09/11/2012 | Published 09/07/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Class II Drawbar - 5" Rise - 11-5/8" Long - 3,500 lbs

(2327)

$36.83

Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class III - Efficient

(887)

$112.40

Question:

Installed a class 2 hitch on truck but will require long tow bar and 4+ rise to clear bumper. Not comfortable with class 2 hitch. Im considering returning class 2 hitch and replacing with class 3 hitch. Am I over thinking this? Tongue weight is substantial too. Thanks

asked by: Jack A

Expert Reply:

You can see the various hitches available for your vehicle by clicking on the provided link. Use the drop down menu to choose the bumper style of your S-10.

The Class II hitch for a 1997 S-10 has a 3500 lb towing/300 lb tongue weight capacity, while the Class III has a 3500 lb towing/350 lb tongue weight capacity. You can certainly change to a Class III if you wish, but you will only realize a 50 lb increase in tongue weight.

I would recommend you determine the fully loaded and ready to tow tongue weight of the trailer. If you click on the link, you can see an FAQ article showing several ways of determining this. If the tongue weight of the trailer is over 300 but less than 350 lbs, you would benefit from upgrading to the Class III. If the tongue weight is greater than 350 lbs, you can move any gear stored in the boat rearward to lessen the tongue weight. If this is not possible, I would strongly recommend using a different tow vehicle for the boat.

At 3000 lbs plus, you are getting pretty close to the towing capacity of the hitch. I would suggest consulting the owners manual to determine the towing capacity of the truck. I did an online search, and found mention of tow ratings anywhere from 2000-5000 lbs depending on how the truck is equipped. You will want to ensure that the towing capacity of the vehicle is not exceeded.

If you are planning on towing the boat for long distances or up and down hills, and your truck has an automatic transmission, I would also suggest a transmission cooler like part # D13503. A transmission cooler provides inexpensive insurance to protect your transmission.

expert reply by: Mike L