Outdoor Blog

The 5 Different Types of Trailer Hitches (Explained)

Published

3 years ago

April 17, 2021

woman attaches a trailer to a ball-type tow hitch

With the growing popularity of tiny homes, RVs, and other alternative camping options, there’s a lot to explore in the world of trailers and trailer hitches. Whether you’re using a trailer hitch for the first time, trying to expand your options, or hauling with a new vehicle, understanding the difference between different types of trailer hitches can help you avoid all kinds of hassle.

You don’t want to finish setting up your new DIY camping trailer, just to find out you’ve got the wrong hitch to haul it. The first tip is to pay attention to the specifications in the owner’s manual for any trailer hitch. You can learn a lot from guides like this, but each vehicle and hitch is unique.

Pay special attention to the max towing capacity of your vehicle, trailer, hitch, and any other parts used. And remember, the max hauling capacity of any setup is determined by the weight limit of the lowest-rated component.

What to Consider When Buying Trailer Hitches

To start your search, consider a few basic questions about what you’re hauling, the vehicle you’ll be using, and any other features you might need. Trailer hitches are designed with specific vehicles in mind, so you’ll be somewhat limited in your options by the make, model, and year of the vehicle you’re hauling with.

That said, there are adapters available for many vehicles, so you can theoretically use just about any vehicle to haul a trailer. Still, you should be careful to consider the hauling capacity of your car, SUV, or truck. Most trailer hitches are a type of receiver hitch and these are available for most vehicles.

If you’re towing a standard travel trailer or wheel trailer, a receiver hitch should work fine. There are five different classes of receiver hitch that correspond to different towing capacities, up to about 20,000 lbs. After that, you’ll be looking at heavy-duty options, like a gooseneck hitch or fifth-wheel hitch.

After you’ve determined the proper hitch class and found a few options that are compatible with your vehicle, you can consider additional features you might want as well as the look of the hitch. It might sound silly, but you do want the trailer hitch you’re using to match the general style of your car!

Always remember to read the owner’s manual to fully understand each part of your trailer hitch.

Common Trailer Hitch Parts

Before we dive into the different types of hitches and what they’re used for, let’s go over some of the key parts you should know. The standard receiver hitch set-up, sometimes called a tow hitch, is made up of seven main parts. Other hitch systems, like pintle hitches, have different components, covered in part below.

First, the term “trailer hitch” itself refers specifically to the primary connector between your trailer and your vehicle. So, this includes the receiver tube (which will either be square or round) into which your trailer hitch attachment will be inserted. Commonly, this attachment will be a ball mount that consists of a shank and a trailer ball platform. The shank of the ball mount is secured in the receiver tube by a hitch pin or hitch lock.

Next, the trailer ball is attached to the platform and this provides the direct connection to the trailer. Trailer balls are available in a variety of sizes, so you want to make sure the one you’re using works with your trailer. It should match the trailer coupler, which is the metal latch on the trailer itself which attaches to your trailer ball.

Finally, your trailer hitch needs safety chains and a trailer wiring harness to be complete. These two components are independent of the main mechanical parts of the trailer hitch. A writing harness allows for electricity to flow from your vehicle to the trailer. Safety chains are intended to catch the trailer should something happen to your hitch. So they should be strong enough to stop the trailer if they need to.

Towing Power and Hitch Classes

So how do you determine the towing capacity of your vehicle and use weight ratings to figure out which class of receiver hitch you need? To start with, make sure you consider the towing capacity of your vehicle, the hitch, the trailer, and any accessories used. Your vehicle’s towing capacity will be noted in the owner’s manual, or you can look it up VIN or using the make, model, and year of your vehicle.

Once you know the weight capacity (or towing capacity) of your vehicle, you should determine the gross trailer weight or GTW of the trailer you’re towing. The gross trailer weight is the combined eight of your empty trailer, along with any luggage, passengers, materials, or anything else that will be carried in the trailer. Then, while ensuring that the GTW of your trailer and hitch set up don’t exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity, you can choose a hitch class.

Hitch Classes

Class I hitches are found on cars, crossovers, and SUVs. The smallest hitch available, Class I hitches can two up to 2,000 lbs and are rated for up to 200 lbs of tongue weight. The receiver tube is 1-1/4″ x 1-1/4″ and these hitches are good for light-duty towing.

Class II hitches are very similar to Class I and also feature a 1-1/4″ x 1-1/4″ receiver tube. The main difference is that Class II hitches max out at about 3,500 lbs. When you get to Class III hitches the receiver tube goes up to 2” x 2” and some of these hitches can be used as weight distributing hitches as well.

A Class III hitch can haul up to 8,000 lbs, and these hitches are the most common for full-size trucks and SUVs. Class IV hitches also use a 2” x 2” receiver tube and can tow up to 10,000 lbs. Class V hitches are the highest-rated receiver hitches, found only on full-size trucks and commercial vehicles.

On commercial vehicles, the receiver tube will be 2-1/2” and can tow up to 20,000 lbs. Consumer models generally tow up to 17,000 lbs and have 2” receiver tubes. For especially heavy loads, you’ll need a heavy-duty hitch like a gooseneck hitch or a fifth-wheel hitch. Read on to learn more about when you might need one of these bed-mounted hitches as opposed to rear- or front-mounted hitches.

Tongue Weight

While towing capacity is partially about gross trailer weight, you’ll also need to pay attention to the tongue weight (of TW) that your hitch is rated for. Tongue weight refers to the amount of pressure put on the tongue (or connection point) between your trailer and the vehicle.

While Class I hitches are only rated for 200 lbs of tongue weight, Class II hitches can take up to 350. Class III hitches can be rated for up to 800 and Class IV hitches up to 1,000. The tongue weight rating for Class V hitches ranges from 2,400 lbs to 2,700 lbs, depending on the specific type. You also want to keep the tongue weight between 9% and 15% of the total trailer weight to prevent damage or a swaying trailer.

There are a few different ways to measure your trailer’s tongue weight, but the easiest is to use a tongue weight scale at a towing supply shop. One thing to keep in mind is that square receiver tubes have a slight advantage over round tubes, especially when it comes to tongue weight capacity. A square tube will handle more tongue weight than a round receiver tube.

Bumper hitches are commonly used for light-duty towing such as for RV’s.

Different Types of Trailer Hitches

For the average hauling job, there are five relevant trailer hitches to consider. Specialty hitches and mounts are available for attachments like winches, racks, or even snowplows, but most fall into just a few categories. If you’re hauling a trailer, you’ll need one of the following types of hitches. Keep in mind that only some of these are compatible with your average consumer vehicle.

That said, some of the pickup trucks on the market today have impressive towing capabilities and can be used with a 5th wheel or gooseneck hitch to safely towboats, large travel trailers, and more. Pintle hitches are generally only found on heavy-duty trucks like construction or military vehicles and are designed to maintain control and maneuverability in rough terrain.

1. Bumper Hitch

The simplest and most common kind of trailer hitch is the bumper hitch. Bumper hitchers come standard on many trucks and SUVs. Otherwise, it’s relatively easy to attach a bumper tow ball mount to the rear end receiver hitch of most SUVs and trucks. Even some sedans and other small cars can be used with a bumper hitch.

With a bumper tow ball mount, the main options you have are drop length (or rise length) and then style. A basic bumper hitch is great for smaller towing jobs like bike racks, luggage racks, or wheel trailers.

2. Weight Distribution Hitch

Weight distributing hitches are designed with a bit more control in mind. This is still a receiver hitch, so it can be attached to a standard vehicle and used with trailers, racks, and more. With a weight-distribution hitch, you can rebalance whatever you’re hauling as well as increasing sway control.

This is great for hauling larger trailers, or any trailer where you want more sway control. Most people use weight distribution hitches for travel trailers and campers to make it a bit easier to control these trailers. The way it works is by distributing the weight of the trailer between all the axles of your vehicle.

With a standard bumper hitch, the weight sits entirely on the back of the car you’re towing with, and on the rear axle in particle. By using a weight distributing hitch, you can spread the tongue weight across all the axles and reduce stress on your vehicle while improving handling, balance, and sway.

One thing to note, though, is that rebalancing the weight of a trailer does not increase the maximum weight your towing vehicle can haul. Once again, you should note the towing capacity of the lowest-rated component you’re using and regard that as the weight limit for your trailer hitch.

3. Fifth Wheel Hitches

The fifth wheel hitch was developed to move along with the towing vehicle and this hitch can pivot and absorb shocks. A fifth-wheel hitch provides an easier towing experience for heavy-duty towing jobs and you’ll often see fifth-wheel hitches used by tractor-trailers, car haulers, and cargo carriers.

You can carry a lot more weight with a fifth-wheel hitch than with a standard bumper hitch, but be sure your tow vehicle can handle the added weight as well. Maximum weight capacity is up to about 30,000 lbs. A fifth wheel hitch works by attaching the trailer to the truck via a kingpin mechanism, so the coupling system is a part of the hitch itself rather than the trailer.

A fifth wheel hitch is mounted either over or slightly in front of the axles in the bed of the truck. Because the weight is distributed between the cab and the rear axle, and the hitch is in constant contact with the trailer plate, this is a very secure way to haul a trailer.

In fact, we now refer to large travel trailers that use a fifth wheel hitch as fifth wheel (or 5th wheel hitch) trailers. Considered the top of the line in RVs and travel trailers, these trailers require a full-size truck to haul. The upside is that you can fit a lot, including even heavy appliances and amenities, in a large fifth-wheel trailer.

4. Gooseneck Hitches

Like a fifth-wheel hitch, gooseneck hitches are used for heavier hauling jobs and provide for a more stable towing experience as well as enabling tighter turns than the standard ball mount bumper hitch. These hitches are typically used for hauling cars, livestock trailers, and other commercial trailers.

Gooseneck trailer hitches can haul up to 38,000 lbs. Like a fifth-wheel hitch, gooseneck hitches are attached to the truck bed of the truck, either above or below. An above-bed gooseneck hitch is attached to the rails already on your vehicle just like a fifth-wheel hitch. Blo-bed gooseneck hitchers are more popular though and are specifically fitted to the towing vehicle and may have additional stabilizing brackets.

So, an above-bed hitch is better if you’re going to be switching hitches frequently. However, if you’re looking for more stability, power, and customization, a below-bed gooseneck trailer is the way to go. This kind of hitch is most commonly found on farms.

5. Pintle Hitches

Pintle hitches are the most powerful kind of hitch we’ll cover here. Using a hooking system called a lunette and pintle, these hitches allow for a much larger range of motion. The pintle is attached to the truck while the lunette (a ring that couples with it) is attached to the trailer. Pintle hitches are most commonly used in military, commercial, and agriculture scenarios where rough terrain or steep angles present an obstacle.

With a towing capacity of up to 60,000 lbs, these heavy-duty hitches can only be used for vehicles with a high weight capacity. Pintle hitches can be a little louder and rougher to ride with, but they’re made for off-road terrain, so it comes with the territory.

Final Verdict

It’s easy to overlook this essential part of a new trailer purchase! Whether there’s a hitch that comes with your new trailer, or you have to buy it separately, take care in picking out the right trailer hitch for your needs. With these tips in mind, you should be able to figure it out based on the weight carrying capacity you need, the type of vehicle you’re using, and what kind of terrain you’ve got.

Trailers today are quite versatile, so you’ll have lots of options to think through. Whether you’re towing a boat or a portable tent platform, the right trailer hitch is out there if you know where to look. Plus, there are tons of styles and extra features available these days, so you can even match your trailer hitch to the look of your car.

Bonus tip: Check out this video on how to reverse your vehicle with a trailer attached!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter