1-1/4-Inch to 2-Inch Hitch Adapter for Use on Subaru Forester

Updated 06/12/2014 | Published 06/11/2014

Question:

I am trying to find a 1.5 inch to 2 inch hitch adapter to use on a Subaru Forrester that has a 1.5 inch hitch. If you could please let me know if you do carry this adapter or refer me another company that may, I would greatly appreciate it. Kind regards.

asked by: Jessica B

Expert Reply:

There are several different classes of 1-1/4-inch hitches offered for the Subaru Forester. Without knowing the vehicle's model year I cannot be absolutely sure if the hitch on the vehicle is a light-duty Class I type or a higher capacity Class II. Please note that 1-1/2-inches is not a standard size for a receiver opening; they are typically 1-1/4-inch, 2-inch or 2-1/2-inch on heavy duty trucks.

We do offer hitch adapters and extenders that will allow 2-inch hitch accessories to be used in a 1-1/4-inch hitch, however it is necessary to know the hitch class. It is also important to note that ALL of these adapters have the unavoidable side-effect of reducing the hitch's carrying capacity by 50-percent. This occurs as a result of the change in the geometry at the hitch. In the same way that sliding a piece of pipe over a tire iron gives one better leverage to loosen a stubborn lug nut, a hitch adapter of extender will place additional stress on the hitch, and this is why its capacity is cut in half.

There should be a safety/warning sticker on the hitch that indicates either Class I or Class II capacity.
Once you know this you can use the link provided to select a compatible adapter. There is a filter in the left margin that will let you choose among Class I or Class II adapters.

The extender you referenced, # HTAD, works in both Class I and Class II hitches.

expert reply by: Adam R