Using 2" Attachments with a New 2-1/2" Receiver

Published 01/27/2021

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Hitch Receiver Reducer Sleeve - 2-1/2" to 2"

(381)

$33.00

Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 2-1/2" Hitch - 7" Rise, 3" Drop

(150)

$239.73

Question:

Thank you for the answer to my question. You are very helpful. The only thing I can't find is a weight limit on the B&W 2 and 1/2-in to 2-in reducer?

asked by: Gary H

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have some older 2" accessories that you need to work with your new 2-1/2" receiver. We have you covered.

One option you have is to simply use a reducer sleeve like the B&W Hitch Receiver Reducer Sleeve, part # BWRHXA2182. This will slide into your 2-1/2" receiver and allow you to use your 2" attachments. I've linked to a video demonstration of this.

Another option is to replace some of the smaller parts so you don't need a sleeve. For your weight distribution system's shank, we have the Equal-i-zer Weight Dist Shank - 2-1/2" Hitch - 7" Rise, 3" Drop, part # EQ90-02-4700. Since shanks are basically interchangeable between different weight distribution systems, this will work perfect for you (provided the drop and rise fit within your requirements, of course). I've linked to a video review of this shank for you to look at.

As for a dedicated ball mount, I've linked to a list of our 2-1/2" ball mounts below. The only thing you will need is to find which rise or drop you need.

expert reply by: Kef G

Gary H.

1/27/2021

Thank you for the answer to my question. You are very helpful. The only thing I can't find is a weight limit on the B&W 2 and 1/2-in to 2-in reducer?

Kef G.

1/27/2021

Reducer sleeves like the B&W one, part # BWRHXA2182, typically do not have a weight rating. This may seem strange as many hitch reducers do have weight ratings, but those are the ones that extend out past the receiver (thereby giving additional length/clearance). The lower weight rating for these is mostly there because of the extension, not so much the build-quality of the reducer. In other words, the further out from your hitch, the lower the capacity it can handle. A sleeve, on the other hand, does not extend past the receiver. It simply fills the space so the 2" accessories fit snugly in a 2-1/2" receiver. For this reason, the towing capacity of your hitch will not change when using the sleeve.