Trailer Hitch and Wiring Recommendations for a 2011 Subaru Forester

Updated 07/22/2013 | Published 07/19/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(440)

$217.62

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(679)

$16.44

Question:

Your info indicates 4000# trailer weight and 400# tongue weight. Subaru says 2400# and 200# maximum. I realize that your hitch is different than the Subaru, but is your capacity realistic? Thanks

asked by: Dan

Helpful Expert Reply:

Absolutely. However, just because the trailer hitch is rated for 400/4,000 pounds does not mean that the vehicle is. You still have to go by whatever is rated lower: the hitch or the vehicle.

The Curt trailer hitch # 13147 has been constructed and tested for the capacity stated, in this case 400 pounds tongue weight and 4,000 pounds gross trailer weight. Despite these capacities, if you are going to use the hitch for a bike rack or cargo carrier Curt recommends the use of a stabilization strap, # 18050, to take some of the stress off of the hitch.

Other Class III hitches for the vehicle, including # 75650, do NOT require the use of a stabilization strap.

If you plan on doing some towing with any of the hitches listed above, I recommend the etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 balls mounts, 2 balls, a hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag. For trailer wiring use # 118467. I have linked instructions and videos for the hitches and wiring for you.

expert reply by: Michael H