Is a Rise/Drop Ball Mount Compatible With a Hitch Extender?

Updated 08/06/2020 | Published 08/04/2020

Question:

I have a 2011 Subaru Forester 2,400 lb TC with a 4,000/400TW hitch capacity. I am towing a 1,300 lb camper. I bought a weigh safe 10inch adapter because the trailer needs to be 8-10inch higher to be level while towing. However, when the weigh safe 10inch adapter is used in the rise position, the bumper prevents the weigh safe shank from being fully dropped and I cannot attach the hitch pin. Is it safe to use HE06 hitch extender with a 10inch riser while towing the camper? Are there any better options?

asked by: Erin P

Expert Reply:

The Hitch Extender For 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver 7" # HE06 can be used with a rise or drop ball mount. It does however reduce the hitch's tongue weight capacity by 50% and will limit the tongue weight to 350 lbs even if your hitch receiver would allow more. Since you state your hitch tongue weight capacity is 400 lbs, the extender will reduce the capacity to 200 lbs maximum tongue weight.

There aren't really any better options for the length and rise you are seeking.

expert reply by: Jason S