Can a High/Low Adapter be Used to Tow Pintle Hook Trailer With Standard 2-Inch Hitch

Updated 02/03/2014 | Published 01/31/2014

Question:

We just purchased an old military trailer with a pintle ring, but the trailer is about 3 ft off the ground and cannot be safely hitched to the back of our Honda Pilot SUV. We have a standard 2inch receiver with a pintle hook adapter that can be put on, but it is way too low. Is there a high/low adapter that can be used in this application? We never tow more than about 1500 lbs.

asked by: Mia S

Expert Reply:

Since the height of your pintle-equipped military trailer is so much greater than the height of the hitch on your Honda Pilot (possibly as much as 2 feet) I am not sure there is any way to keep the trailer level when hitched. We do not offer an adapter that can make up this substantial height difference.

I suggest you check your Honda Pilot owners manual to confirm the vehicle tow rating. Tow ratings can vary by model year and based on the specific equipment set in your Pilot. You want to be sure that the trailer you intend to tow is within both the vehicle and hitch ratings. There should be a sticker on the hitch indicating its weight capacity. The hitches we offer for the Pilot are Class III designs rated for 3500-lb towing capacity but yours may be different. You can check your manual, your hitch or with your dealership.

I suggest you also investigate the trailer itself to see if you can confirm its speed rating. Typically military trailers are not designed for highway speeds; and the height of your trailer suggests it may have been designed specifically for off-road use. The tires on it may also have a lower speed rating than those usually found on recreational trailers. It is a good idea to check these things to ensure your towing activities will be safely within the capacities of all items.

expert reply by: Adam R