Pickup trucks and SUVs with trailer hitches have a wide range of
uses. They can pull boats, campers, cargo trailers and a number
of other items. There are several types of trailer hitches. Most
pickup trucks have what is called a ball trailer hitch. Other
types of trailer hitches are gooseneck trailer hitches and fifth
wheel hitches.
It is important to have a strong enough truck to haul whatever
is connected to the trailer hitch. The truck must have enough
engine strength to build up momentum to pull the trailer. This
is why you very rarely see cars equipped with trailer hitches.
Trailer hitches must be installed correctly to the truck or the
entire hitch rig can come off, leaving the cargo behind.
Usually, the hitch is mounted on a type of bumper that must be
installed under the tailgate. The strength of this rig
determines how much weight the hitch can handle. Different
classes can pull different amounts of weight. Class-1 trailer
hitches are the weakest; they can usually pull up to 2000
pounds. Class-5 trailer hitches are the strongest, with a
pulling capacity of over 10,000 pounds.
Most pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles have ball trailer
hitches. The hitch consists of a metal ball that attaches to a
socket on the cargo. Larger trailer hitch balls can usually
support more weight than smaller balls. Ball trailer hitches are
more versatile than many other types and can be used to haul
small cargo trailers, boats, and some campers.
Gooseneck trailer hitches also use a ball, but they are attached
to the truck differently. Gooseneck trailer hitches are attached
to the top of the truckbed, rather than at the bumper.
Fifth wheel trailer hitches are the strongest type of trailer
hitch. They can be used to carry heavy cargo. Heavy-duty cargo
trucks usually employ fifth wheel hitches.
Trailer hitches allow trucks to haul cargo. Without the proper
type of hitch, it would be impossible to attach and pull a
trailer
Trailer Hitch Class & Capacity Comparison - etrailer.com
