Hi Folks: With all the topics on hitch extensions lately I am now getting concerned that I maybe limiting myself on what type or extent of hitch extension I may be able to install on my new 2015 GMC 3500 4x4 long box double cab DRW which will have a OEM hitch on it. We have a 2005 Lance 1181 and will need a likely 3 foot extension to pull a light trailer or light 14 foot boat. I am hoping that a 3 foot hitch extension is doable without switching to another hitch like a Reese or Torklift? Christl

I use a 36" extension with the GM OEM 2-1/2" receiver to pull a motorcycle trailer that carries one of our 2 bikes ('92 BMW K100RS4V or '12 Suzuki DRZ400).The trailer and the BMW weigh less than 1000# total, so that might not help you.

Light duty towing, you may be able to get away with a 3' extension on an OEM 2.5" receiver. Once you start approaching 3000 lbs behind that 3' lever of an extension, you are putting stresses on the receiver for which it was not designed - Just think of the twisting forces on the mounting hardware and box structure when you apply weight to that leverage. There are correct tools to do this job, but towing heavy on an extension with the OEM receiver are not the ones.BTW: Lighter trailers that do not have their own brakes may actually stress the receiver more than a heavier one that does have its own braking.

I used a Reese 48" extension in my factory '07 Chevy 2.5" receiver to pull my 4,500 pound boat for 2 years. I didn't have any problems with it. I like my current set up better which is a Torklift hitch and extension.

I would at least want some chains pulling at an angle to help handle the torque magnification of the extension.

I switched to a Torklift 20K hitch on my 2015 GMC 3500HD dually, so my truck would fit into my garage, by 1.5" , but I plan on towing a trailer and you can't beat a Super Truss for safe towing. If you have to change hitches go with Torklift.

Hitch Extension Options on OEM Hitches | Good Sam Community

Bedlam
Moderator
Sep 13, 2015
Light duty towing, you may be able to get away with a 3' extension on an OEM 2.5" receiver. Once you start approaching 3000 lbs behind that 3' lever of an extension, you are putting stresses on the receiver for which it was not designed - Just think of the twisting forces on the mounting hardware and box structure when you apply weight to that leverage. There are correct tools to do this job, but towing heavy on an extension with the OEM receiver are not the ones.

BTW: Lighter trailers that do not have their own brakes may actually stress the receiver more than a heavier one that does have its own braking.
SugarHillCTD
Explorer
Sep 13, 2015
I use a 36" extension with the GM OEM 2-1/2" receiver to pull a motorcycle trailer that carries one of our 2 bikes ('92 BMW K100RS4V or '12 Suzuki DRZ400).

The trailer and the BMW weigh less than 1000# total, so that might not help you.

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