Forum Discussion

work2much's avatar
work2much
Explorer
Nov 03, 2018

Hitch Extenders

I know this has been discussed more than once but search wasn't turning up results.

We have a Ram 3500 with a 2-1/2 inch receiver. Our TC extends approximately 36" past the trucks receiver box. We will be flat towing a Jeep Wrangler that should weight 4500 pounds or so.

I know many folks use a Torklift Supertruss. I was hoping to use the factory receiver with something like this and cut to length.


https://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Adapters/Reese/RP45018.html

I would add diagonal chain back to the truck frame similar to what the super truss has. Suggestions?

I am also looking for advice on the towing apparatus. So far Blue Ox seems to be common and well liked. I am also considering their patriot brake. Open to suggestions. Thanks!

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Ox-BRK2016-Brake-System/dp/B01LYA4FEV/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541281724&sr=8-1&keywords=blue+ox+patriot+braking+system
  • FireGuard wrote:
    That extension is strong enough but not sure with the stock hitch.
    I used the Reese Titan receiver and 48” ext when I had my 03 Dodge and Lance 1191. I towed a 20’ enclosed trailer with dirt bikes and quads with no problems.
    For around $400, Curt makes a heavy duty 2 1/2” receiver that mounts under your stock hitch.
    I have the Blue Ox base plate on my Jeep. Very straight forward install and only takes a couple of hours. I use the Blue Ox Aladdin aluminum extendable tow bar.
    I don’t use a braking system and with your rig it’s probably not necessary but is required in some states.


    The stock receiver is 2-1/2. I'll have to look up the rating but I believe the stock receiver is rated 25k? I'll need to look into this. Thanks!
  • FireGuard wrote:
    I thought the Mammoth was 12’ long. Did you measure the overhang?
    I needed the 48” with my 11’6” Lance.


    Camper is off so I could be a little off. Measuring from under the camper where I can see the line the bed mat left to the outside edge of the camper exterior and subtracting roughly 10" for the distance from the mat to the reciever was about 36". The bar can handle up to 48" so I should be good on that.
  • I thought the Mammoth was 12’ long. Did you measure the overhang?
    I needed the 48” with my 11’6” Lance.
  • That extension is strong enough but not sure with the stock hitch.
    I used the Reese Titan receiver and 48” ext when I had my 03 Dodge and Lance 1191. I towed a 20’ enclosed trailer with dirt bikes and quads with no problems.
    For around $400, Curt makes a heavy duty 2 1/2” receiver that mounts under your stock hitch.
    I have the Blue Ox base plate on my Jeep. Very straight forward install and only takes a couple of hours. I use the Blue Ox Aladdin aluminum extendable tow bar.
    I don’t use a braking system and with your rig it’s probably not necessary but is required in some states.