Trailer Hitch Recommendation for a 2014 Ford Escape

Published 09/12/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(729)

$230.76

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(313)

$80.29

Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4"

(63)

$226.59

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1376)

$80.11

Question:

I am considering a hitch for my new 2014 Ford Escape. The less obvious ones require removal of a portion of the heat shield. Is there any negative consequence to that? Any problems retaining water and debris?

asked by: Aaron E

Expert Reply:

Removing the heatshield to install a hitch is a fairly common requirement. You would not see any water retention or anything like that. With that being said, I would go with the Draw-Tite part # 75758. This is a Class III hitch that would give you more capacity and would be compatible with more hitch accessories like bike racks and cargo carriers than a Class II like the part # 36529.

For trailer wiring you would want the part # 118566.

For ball mounts I recommend the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts, 2 balls, a hitch pin with clip, and a carrying bag.

expert reply by: Jameson C