Haul Your Boat to the Lake or Move across the Country

Summer's here, and that means two things: vactions and moving. And whether you're gearing up to haul your boat to the lake, tow a camper to the back country or pull a U-haul from one abode to the next, you're not going to be able to do it without a hitch mount.

Also known as trailer hitches, a hitch mount is available in two styles: receiver and fixed-drawbar. A receiver hitch mounts directly onto the frame of your truck or SUV and accepts removable ball mounts, trailers, boats and other hitch-mounted accessories. Fixed-drawbar hitches are all-in-one and usually made up of a one-piece construction, including a built-in hole for the trailer ball. The downside to this type is they're typically not compatible with aftermarket hitch accessories.

Here in the US, trailer hitches are numbered by class (simply I, II, III, IV and V), based on their weight capacity. Classes I and II will accommodate lighter loads of no more than 3,500 lbs. Classes III, IV and V, ranging from simple replacement hitches to heavy-duty gooseneck hitches, are intended for those hauling large or heavy objects and can easily tow up to 10,000 lbs. For those who need even more power, a 5th wheel hitch can be added, allowing up to 16,000 lbs of towing capacity. Convenient as they are strong, a 5th wheel hitch features single-handle operation, a dual pivot head and a 4-position height adjustment.

Performance-grade trailer hitches – like the Silverado hitch, Toyota Tundra trailer hitch and Ford trailer hitches – are sealed against the elements with a powder-coated finish, keeping them looking factory-fresh and rust-free. In addition, CURT and other manufacturers offer models with an open back-end, allowing easy cleaning.

Word to the wise: the weight of that gear adds up pretty quick, so you might consider securing your hitch mount with a hitch lock. Locking hitch pins and trailer hitch locks thwart crooks from nabbing your gear while providing safety on the road by preventing runaway trailers. Plus, hitch covers can be added to attractively conceal them when not in use and prevent accidentally receiving a hitch mount in the shin.

Now that you're ready to roll, make sure you're rolling as safely as possible by tacking on a set of towing lights to the back of your gear. Towing lights are easily mounted to the back of any vehicle, boat, trailer, camper or other accessory and instantly bring you into compliance with towing laws (at least in regards to safety and visibility). Towing lights are available with either a 4-way flat plug or 7-way RV plug, making them a breeze to hook up. Plus, the non-scratch magnetic bases protect the finish of whatever you attach them to, while the 20' cord provides plenty of length between the lights and the connection.

Dodge accessories, like a trailer hitch or hitch wiring, enable you to haul or tow just about anything just about anywhere. Quick and affordable, they'll have you on road safely and securely in minutes.

If you're a San Diego local, like us, and can't get enough of this outside weather, you'll need to stock up before venturing out. Swing by San Diego Trailer Supply for all of your RV necessities. They have the perfect mix of supplies and no-how to get you ready for the great outdoors. If you're not lucky enough to be enjoying the San Diego sunshine, you can click here to find a local RV specialist.

Trailer Hitches

Please feel free to call toll-free 800.874.8888 or e-mail sales@autoanything.com with any questions. We are delighted to be of assistance in finding the right auto parts for you, be they car parts, truck parts or SUV parts.