Class II--longer draw bar?

[lakelover]

I searched to see if this has been addressed before and only came up with the issue of a question about an extra long draw bar, someone was looking for an extra foot or two.<br /><br />I need only an extra inch or two for the ball on the draw bar (class II) to be well clear of my bumper on '96 Lumina. It clears now, but is a tight fit when mounting the trailer.<br /><br />Anyone know whether there are small variations and certain brands tend to be a little longer than others? Just hoping for any tips before I begin my search.<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Class II--longer draw bar?

The smaller capacity trailer hitches tend to be rather generic except for some model-specific mounting brackets and hardware. As a result, the amount a drawbar extends may be very little on some vehicles while there is substantial clearance on others. Generally, the name brands (such as Reese, Rigid Hitch, etc) are better about fit. If you are looking for just a longer drawbar, you may have trouble finding one but a local machine shop could make one an inch longer if you give them the old piece to go by. If you can get by with a one-inch extension, do it rather than going two inches. If its an entirely new hitch you're after, you have many choices but stick with the majors for safety as well as fit.

 

[DJ]

Re: Class II--longer draw bar?

A longer drawbar is a BAD idea. The extra length adds to the stress on the hitch and it's mounting. The mounting is suspect, on that car. It's NOT a trailer towing vehicle.<br /><br />If you're towing 1000 #, or less, probably OK, with a VERY light tongue load. Anything heavier and the hitch may leave the car, at the worst time.

 

[brine]

Re: Class II--longer draw bar?

are you talking about the lumina van or car? Watch out when using homemade parts on your hitch. They wont pass a roadside stop if they are not rated and marked with their capacity.

 

[DJ]

Re: Class II--longer draw bar?

Van or car, my statement stands the same.<br /><br />A hitch is only as good as to what it is mounted to.

 

[lakelover]

Re: Class II--longer draw bar?

Originally posted by DJ:<br /> A longer drawbar is a BAD idea. The extra length adds to the stress on the hitch and it's mounting. The mounting is suspect, on that car. It's NOT a trailer towing vehicle.<br /><br />If you're towing 1000 #, or less, probably OK, with a VERY light tongue load. Anything heavier and the hitch may leave the car, at the worst time.

I estimate the boat, motor, gear to be about 415#, plus the trailer. Not a very heavy load.<br /><br />I'm guessing an inch or so variation among manufacturers would be common. Will post back what I find out.

 

[lakelover]

Re: Class II--longer draw bar?

Originally posted by brine:<br /> are you talking about the lumina van or car? Watch out when using homemade parts on your hitch. They wont pass a roadside stop if they are not rated and marked with their capacity.

Sedan...not looking for home made parts though.

 

[brine]

Re: Class II--longer draw bar?

good