Now that you’ve added a new heavy-duty track to your farm for utilitarian reasons, the next thing you need to couple it up with is the best adjustable trailer hitch. But, why did we recommend an adjustable hitch? You see, for most of you, towing or rather hauling a range of different sized trailers will be quite inevitable especially if you’re looking to transport agricultural produce, farm equipment, a boat, a horse trailer, or other goods from one point to another.
Since you’ll need a safe and secure way to attach your track with whatever you’re towing, an adjustable hitch will generally become an imperative proposition. But, when it comes to picking the precise choice, it’s not always as simple as picking the meatiest trailer hitch you’ll find in the market. These hitches are usually classified and subdivided into different brands, models, and designs making it extremely difficult to make an informed choice.
Contents
Best Adjustable Trailer Hitch: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 10 Best Adjustable Trailer Hitch Reviews:
Thankfully, this guide has swum deep into the wide ocean of adjustable hitches and trailer ball mounts to discuss ten of the best trailer hitches that will suit your track. Since most of you are not familiar with these mounting accessories, we’ve gone ahead to add a very detailed buyer’s guide section to give you some inspiration when making your choice. Besides, we’ve tried to answer some of the pressing questions meaning you’ll be 100% sorted when you’re through reading. Without wasting any more time, please let’s begin.
1. B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Dual Ball Size Hitch
If you’re fond of towing heavy equipment with different-sized hitch receivers, then perhaps the B&W Trailer Hitches Tow & Stow Dual Ball Size Hitch might be an imperative pick. The reason why this trailer hitch came first is that you get multiple configurations with just the price of one unit. About its construction, this trailer hitch has managed to keep up with the brand’s outstanding looks by consolidating a clever zinc phosphate base and a shiny steel-plated finish on the balls.
The entire body is then finished with a black powder coating to give it a refreshing look and an excellent anti-corrosion advantage. The B&W Trailer Hitch is a dual ball shank model that measures 2″ x 2-5/16″. It’s capable of fitting 2” receiver hitches while offering 3 inches of drop movement and 3 inches and up movement. Unlike the 3” shank model that supports 21, 000lbs, the 2 ½ inch shank model supports 10,000lbs of GTW (Gross Towing Weight) and a further 1000lbs of TWR (Tongue Weight Rating).
For those with different-sized trailers and other attachment accessories, the B&W Trailer Hitch is an investment you can’t afford to miss out on. It has two different-sized towing balls that can be twisted to help you easily find the perfect match for your trailer. The balls and the pins are also made of steel meaning they’ve surpassed the endurance and strength rating setup by SAE J-684.
Pros
- Has a double ball hitch for easy switch.
- Made from steel to improve strength.
- Offers an impressive 3” of movement both upwards and downwards.
- Fairly priced.
- Endures an impressive weight of 10,000lbs.
Cons
- Doesn’t fit GM HD trucks since they’re too high.
2. Weigh Safe 180 HITCH LTB6-2.5 6″ Drop Hitch
It’s surprising how Weight Safe has solidified its position in the towing industry in recent times. But, when you consider the fitness and the overall performance of their latest addition, the Weight Safe 180 HITCH LTB6-2.5 6” Drop Hitch, then there’s no reason why you should be amazed. This beast has generally outperformed most trailer hitches in this business due to its high-quality industrial-grade construction.
First and foremost, this trailer hitch is designed to be adjustable with two balls one below and the other one on top. For this specific model, the height adjustment goes up to 6”. However, Weight Safe has added other similar models that offer varying height adjustments ranging from 4” to 10”. About its performance, this trailer hitch is a real beast. That’s because it can offer a maximum towing weight limit of 8,000lbs on the 2” ball and a maximum of 18,500lbs on the 2 5/16” ball. This hitch can further afford a maximum tongue weight of 2,200lbs making it an excellent option for towing pretty heavy equipment.
Now, where does the Weight Safe 180 HITCH get all this massive power from? If you happen to inspect its construction, then you’ll see exactly where. You see, this hitch is made out of 18lbs of solid Aircraft grade billet aluminum then reinforced with stainless steel to prevent it from corrosion. With such massive strength, this hitch can tow almost any equipment that rests within its towing capacity.
Pros
- Comes with additional dual-pin locks for added strength.
- Has a height adjustability of up to 6 inches.
- Has an impressive towing capacity of 18,500lbs.
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty for the ball mount.
- Highly resistant to corrosion.
Cons
- The retaining pin is quite hard to remove.
- Sometimes the adjustable holes fail to align.
3. B&W TS10049B Tow and Stow Magnum Receiver Hitch Ball Mount
The best thing about most B&W drop hitches for trailers is that they save you tons of money due to their immense versatility. One such example that has been at the center of most discussions is the B&W TS10049B Tow and Stow Hitch Ball Mount. Available with three-receiver balls, this trailer hitch can handle any trailer regardless of its load size and tongue size. Unlike our previous B&W Trailer Hitch that had only two balls, this one has been advanced to feature three balls hence the name tri-ball mount.
The three balls measure 1-7/8″ by 2″ by 2-5/16″. They’re capable of handling a Gross Towing Weight of up to 14,000lbs for the 2 ½ “ shank model and 21,000lbs for the 3” shank model. This trailer hitch can also endure a Vertical Towing Weight Rating (also known as Tongue Weight Rating) of 1,450lbs for the 2 ½ “ shank model and 2,100lbs for the 3” shank model.
Besides its performance, the B&W TS10049BHitch Ball Mount offers you an impressive 7” drop and 7 ½ “ rise. This high level of adjustability allows you to attach any trailer or towing accessory without struggling. In fact, it offers a brilliant 1-inch increment making it extremely easy to attach anything. The construction is something else B&W Trailer Hitches has worked hard on as the entire unit is made out of stainless steel with a black powder coating to resist rust and corrosion.
Pros
- Comes with an option of 3 ball sizes to choose from.
- Stainless steel construction provides both strength and longevity.
- Offers an impressive 7” drop and 7.5” rise.
- The balls can be rotated easily to find the right pick.
- You won’t have to get extra ball mounts.
Cons
- Makes a disturbing rattling noise when towing.
4. CURT 45900 Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
There’s a lot you might not have realized about the CURT 45900 Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount. For instance, this trailer hitch is one of the most popular despite CURT producing a wide range of models. But, have you asked yourself why the 45900 is the best-selling? Well, I guess you’ve not. Now, one reason why this model has excelled so much in the towing business is due to its intuitive design. This is all thanks to the dual 2” and 2-5/16” ball mounts that can be flipped easily to suit a wide range of trailers and towing accessories.
The drop hitch itself can further be adjusted to a height of 5 ¼ “ or lowered to a depth of 6” making it quite versatile. For those worried about the towing capacity, this trailer hitch can endure a massive GTW of 10,000lbs for the 2” ball or 14,000lbs for the 2-5/16” ball. Now, in our previous model, the B&W TS10049BHitch Ball Mount, there were complaints of rattling when towing. Thankfully, with the CURT 45900, this design flaw has totally been fixed with the help of an in-built anti-rattle feature that reduces any deterring vibrations and rattles when towing.
For those towing heavy equipment across snowy, rainy, salty, muddy, or extremely dry terrains, the CURT 45900 has given you a reason to give that sigh of relief. That’s because the body of this hitch is made out of durable powder coat zinc plating with a carbide black texture to resist all forms of wear whether it’s corrosion or wear caused by metal fatigue. With such impressive reinforcement, this trailer hitch can be used on any class 3, class 4, or class 5 hitch receivers making it one of the best in the market.
Pros
- The dual balls can be flipped to suit a range of trailers.
- It has a height adjustment option of 6” down and 5 ¼ “ up.
- The anti-rattle feature allows smooth towing.
- It’s all-weather resistant.
- Offers a high gross weight of 14,000lbs.
Cons
- The finish isn’t durable.
5. MaxxHaul 70380 Black/Chrome Adjust Dual Ball Mount
The MaxxHaul 70380 Adjustable Dual Ball Mount is a smart addition that offers a balance between affordability and exceptional towing performance. This trailer hitch comes with two ball mounts one of which is a 2” and the other a 2-5/16” ball mount. Since this unit is expected to haul heavy-duty cargo, the 2” ball mount is estimated to have a Gross Weight Capacity of 8,000lbs while the other 2-5/16” hitch ball can tow a maximum weight of 12,000lbs.
About the tongue weight rating, the 2” ball mount can endure up to 800lbs while the other hitch ball can support up to 1,000lbs. In terms of construction, this trailer hitch is built to endure extreme towing conditions. This is manifested by its heavy-duty construction that consists of a stainless steel body brushed with a black and chrome finish to bolster longevity.
The MaxxHaul 70380 doesn’t just stop there. It’s equipped with smart adjustable functionality that essentially solidifies its title as one of the most dependable ball mounts in the market. The ball mounts can easily raise or lower on the shank to a maximum height of 7 ½ “ and a maximum depth of 6 ½ “. There are also two 5/8” pins in the package that assist you in locking the screws in place when it’s time to move.
Pros
- Has a dual pin design for maximum security and stability.
- A high level of adjustability suits a wide range of towing equipment.
- Black and chrome finish guarantee immense durability.
- Has a maximum towing capacity of 12,000lbs.
- Compatible with class 3 and 4 weight capacity.
Cons
- It’s quite loose thus creating some jiggling.
6. Orion Motor Tech 8-Position Adjustable Trailer Drop Ball Mount Hitch
The reason why we added the Orion Motor Tech Ball Mount Hitch in this guide of the best adjustable trailer hitch was to give you something to smile about in terms of the price. This, therefore, makes this trailer hitch a perfect match for those looking for an inexpensive hitch that won’t cost them an arm and a leg. Now, this hitch doesn’t endure a lot of weight like most of the other units we’ve discussed. While most endure a massive 10,000-21,000lbs, the Orion Motor Tech Ball Mount Hitch only endures a gross weight of 5,000lbs and a tongue weight of 500lbs.
But, despite supporting such a low weight, the design of this trailer hitch cannot be underestimated. This hitch is equipped with a very sturdy welded A3 steel body that’s further brushed with a black powder coating to reinforce it and keep it safe from the elements.
It’s also designed with very high adjustability that allows it to rise to a height of 8 ¼ “ and drop to a depth of 9 ½ “ to fit most trailers and towing accessories such as boats, RVs, and horse trailers among others. This hitch is further equipped with two 5/8” diameter pins that secure your trailer in 8 different towing positions.
Pros
- Can be raised at 4 different levels.
- Endures a maximum load capacity of 5,000lbs.
- Made from A3 steel for improved strength and performance.
- Coated with a black powder coating for all-weather use.
- Secured using two 5/5” hitch pins.
Cons
- Unfortunately, it’s only used for lighter loads.
- It’s sloppy and quite noisy.
7. GEN-Y Hitch GH-224 Adjustable Drop Hitch
Although the Orion Motor Tech Ball Mount Hitch was available at an extremely low price, it had one major flaw—it was only meant to tow lighter loads. Now, for those looking to spend their fortunes on a premium option that will never cause an embarrassment, then the GEN-Y Hitch GH-224 Adjustable Drop Hitch is exactly what you need. The best thing about this tow hitch is that it’s designed to thrive in extremely tough towing conditions.
One of the features that make it highly adaptable to such settings is its heavy-duty construction. Build from fabricated steel and coated with durable silver-vein powder, this hitch can withstand any form of wear caused by UV rays or metal fatigue due to extreme friction.
This hitch comprises of 2 ½ “ ball mounts that provide a collective 16,000lbs of Gross Towing Weight and a further 2,000lbs of Tongue Weight Rating. It also offers 4 adjustable positions that comprise of 2.5” up and 5” down. Just like most of the hitches we’ve already discussed here, this one too has a shank of 2” with 4 slots. It also has 2 pins that work hand in hand to lock the bolts in place for added reinforcement.
Pros
- Comes with an additional pintle lock alongside the 2 pins.
- Offers 4 adjustment positions.
- Has a high gross weight of 16,000lbs.
- Offers a high level of durability.
- Compatible with a wide range of trailers.
Cons
- Installation is quite difficult.
8. CURT 45901 Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
The CURT 45901 Adjustable Trailer Hitch is quite similar to the Orion Motor Tech Ball Mount Hitch in terms of style and performance. Just like the Orion, the CURT 45901 comes only with the hitch meaning you have to spend some extra bucks to get the ball mount separately. Although that’s the case, this hitch doesn’t just sit back and wait to be underestimated.
Instead, it’s loaded with tons of useful features that combine to make it one of the best ball mounts in the business. One of those features is its immense adjustability that offers up to 6 ¾ “ drop and a 5 ¼ “ rise. With such versatility, this trailer hitch can easily suit a myriad of trailers and other towing equipment without having to spend anything on additional attachment accessories.
To those complaining of annoying rattles and vibrations, the CURT 45901 has come to solve this common design flaw by adding a unique anti-rattle feature to reduce those deterring vibrations and rattles. About its construction, this hitch is made out of high-strength steel that withstands the toughness of nature. The only issue that’s quite disappointing is the Gross Weight Capacity which is only 6,000lbs. However, to those that are comfortable with this load rating, then the CURT 45901 is definitely a must-have.
Pros
- This hitch is highly adjustable.
- It’s coated with carbide black powder for added durability.
- Perfect for class 3, 4, and 5 trailer hitches.
- Stainless steel construction provides superior strength.
- Doesn’t produce any rattles or vibrations.
Cons
- The ball mount is not welded straight. It appears crooked.
9. Reese Towpower 7068900 Rotating Tri-Ball
Founded in 1952, Reese is among the oldest brands that have garnered a huge reputation due to their outstanding contribution to the trailer hitch business. One of their latest offering that has received tremendous praise from most track owners is the Reese Towpower 7068900 Rotating Tri-Ball. Unlike most of the trailer hitches we’ve discussed so far, this one has featured as one of the best alternatives among most folks towing heavy equipment regularly.
One of the reasons why it has outsmarted most of its closest rivals is due to its heavy-duty construction that consists of a cast steel body coated with an OEM metal finish. With this type of construction, this hitch will offer tremendous strength as well as resist metal wear caused by rust and corrosion. For those looking to tow heavy equipment, the Reese Towpower 7068900 Rotating Tri-Ball is equipped with three ball mounts that measure 1-7/8 inch, 2 inches, and 2-5/16 inches.
To allow it to tow trailers and other equipment with varying weights, these ball mounts have varying strengths that range from 200/2,000 lbs. to 1400/14,000 lbs. This trailer drop hitch is also designed to rise to a height of 5-11/16″ and drop to a depth of 4-3/4″ making it a smart option for trailer receivers with varying heights.
Pros
- Has spinning ball mounts of varying sizes.
- Has an integrated step with safe grip patterns.
- Can tow a maximum gross weight of 14,000lbs.
- Versatile enough to tow a wide range of accessories.
- Made from a corrosion-resistant steel material.
Cons
- The OEM power coat finish can sometimes peel off.
10. Andersen Hitches Rapid Hitch 3410 Best Adjustable Ball Mount
Although the Andersen Hitches Rapid Hitch 3410 came last in our discussion, it doesn’t mean it should be underestimated. In fact, this trailer hitch is one of the most unique on our list making it a must-have for track owners who frequently tow trailers and other accessories on a regular basis. Now, one of the things that will amaze you about this hitch is its construction that comprises a brilliant combination of aluminum, on the hitch, and steel plating on the dual balls.
What this means is that this hitch is light on one side and strong on the other thus allowing it to tow heavy stuff with less effort. Other than its smart construction, the Andersen Hitches Rapid Hitch 3410 is fitted with two different sized ball mounts that measure 2” and 2-5/16” respectively. The 2” ball mount can handle a gross weight of 8,000lbs while the 2-5/16” ball can surprisingly endure a gross weight of up to 10,000lbs.
Now, do you know why the 3410 is referred to as “Rapid”? Well, in case you didn’t know then it’s due to its rapid height adjusting advantage. This is all thanks to its toothed shank that lets you adjust the height by removing the pin then putting it back once you’re done. Its ability to allow a 6” rise or drop has been outstanding and that’s the main reason why the 3410 is hugely considered by most track owners looking for nothing less than a high-quality hitch.
Pros
- Allows a decent 6 inches rise or drop.
- Made out of the polished aluminum finish.
- Dual ball mounts can handle a maximum weight of 10,000lbs.
- Designed to fit all standard 2” receivers.
- Designed with a toothed shank for quick height adjustment.
Cons
- It tends to rattle and vibrate a lot.
Factors to Consider When Picking an Adjustable Trailer Hitch
Towing a trailer on a public road isn’t as simple as it sounds. You need to be very serious about it as you’ll be assuming a lot of responsibility such as the lives of other motorists using the same road. Due to this reason, you need the best trailer hitch that will offer the highest level of safety. Now, if you happen to inspect most trailers, you’ll notice that most of them don’t sit at the same distance from the ground.
Due to this reason, you need to invest in the right trailer hitch that will promise to keep your trailer level when towing. Also, that particular hitch must exceed the weight of your trailer when it’s fully loaded and should come with all the necessary accessories that complete the package.
Though we’ve discussed ten of the best aftermarket trailer hitches, there are those factors you need to be keen on when making your choice. So, in our next discussion, we’ll be highlighting some of those factors you need to be aware of.
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Maximum Towing Capacity:
When we mention maximum towing capacity, what we’re referring to is the maximum weight your particular hitch can pull without suffering. Since you’re the one responsible for the safety of other motorists on the road, you need to be very careful with this factor as failure to do so can lead to a fatal accident which you’ll be the one to blame. Different hitches have a different towing capacity which can range from a few thousand pounds to around 50,000lbs.
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Type of Vehicle:
This is the next factor you need to be keen on when choosing your best trailer hitch. You see, the type of vehicle you’re planning to use to tow a trailer will have a huge influence on your overall pick. That’s because smaller cars will require a different hitch as compared to trucks and other bigger vehicles.
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Gross Trailer Weight:
The Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) or the load size for that matter is another key consideration you can’t afford to ignore. Just like the maximum towing capacity, the GTW plays a paramount role in determining the type of hitch you’ll be picking.
To those that are still in the dark, this refers to the total weight of the trailer being pulled. Since this is the total weight your hitch will be expected to pull, you need to verify that the hitch’s maximum towing capacity is equal to or more than the trailer’s gross weight.
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Tongue Weight:
Other than the towing capacity, the tongue weight of the trailer is something else you need to inspect before picking a hitch. To those that are new to these terms, tongue weight refers to the downward force that a trailer’s tongue puts on a hitch. According to most manufacturers, this weight is estimated to be around 10% to 15% of the total gross weight of a trailer. So, just like the gross weight, the tongue weight rating of your hitch should exceed that of your trailer if at all you’re serious about maintaining safety.
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Compatibility:
When it comes to compatibility, you need to ensure that the type of hitch you’re getting is compatible with most hitch receivers. In most cases, the 2” hitch receiver is the most common among most trailers. However, in case your hitch doesn’t come with a universal 2” hitch receiver, then you can consider buying an adapter separately.
Still, on compatibility, you need to ensure that the specific hitch you’re getting has the right height adjustability. This is a very critical consideration as different trailers have different ground clearance from the ground to the trailer’s coupler. Thankfully, all the hitches we’ve discussed in this guide have great height adjustability that goes from 5” to around 9”.
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Hitch Classes:
There are 5 different hitch classes that are hugely dependent on the type of vehicle you’re using to tow a trailer. Class I and II are specifically designed to tow weights ranging from 2,000lbs to 3,500lbs with a tongue weight of 200 to 350lbs. Vehicles used on these types of hitch classes are small personal vehicles and SUVs.
On the other hand, there are class III, IV, and V hitches. These ones are designed to endure maximum gross tow weights that range from 6,000lbs to upwards of 20,000lbs with tongue weights that range from 600lbs to upwards of 1,500lbs. Vehicles used on these types of hitches include large SUVs and trucks.
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Protective Finish:
The last factor you need to look at when picking a trailer hitch is the build quality and the protective finish used. This is a very essential factor that requires a high level of consideration especially if you’re looking to tow for long hours under harsh weather conditions. Factors such as UV rays, salty, snowy, and muddy terrains can easily damage some components on your trailer hitch causing it to wear and get damaged over time. But, with the right protective finish, rust and corrosion can easily be overcome giving your hitch more years of great use.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1: What’s a Tow Receiver?
When shopping for a trailer hitch, one of the terms you’re likely to hear more often is tow receiver. Since most of you are new to most of these terms, a tow receiver is generally a tube or an opening on your tow hitch bar that attaches to the ball mount. So, by sticking the ball mount in there, you’ll have a secure connection between your vehicle and the trailer.
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Q2: What’s Tow Weight?
Throughout this discussion, I believe you’ve read about Gross Tow Weight right? This is generally the total amount of weight you’ll be pulling or towing. When choosing the best adjustable hitch, you’ll be expected to inspect the total weight of the trailer you’ll be towing to ensure that the type of hitch you’re getting will have enough strength to pull your trailer without being overwhelmed.
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Q3: How Do I Adjust the Trailer Brake Controller?
This is a pretty simple procedure. The first step is to plug the wiring harness into your vehicle. When you’re done, let the brake controller self-calibrate. During this time, a flashing light will appear which is a signal indicating that calibration is in progress or it’s done. Once it’s done, input your preferred settings such as the amount of power the trailer brakes will have when you apply the brakes. Once you’re done adjusting the sensitivity level of your trailer’s brakes, remember to test the brakes by driving for about 25 mph then press the brakes to see their response.
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Q4: Do I Need Drop Hitch?
Yes! You’ll need a drop hitch when coupling your vehicle with a trailer. You see, different trailers have different heights from the ground to the couplers. Since a drop hitch is just a reference to the overall adjustability of the hitch, it will make it easier for you to connect trailers with varying heights. This in return will give you a better and safer connection point that will give you the right balance when towing a trailer.
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Q5: What’s Meant by Class III Hitch?
Just as we discussed in the previous section, hitches are classified according to the size of the receiver tube and the amount of Gross Tow Weight (GTW) they’re able to handle. In the case of the Class III hitch, this one can endure a GTW weight of up to 6,000lbs and a Trailer tongue weight of up to 600lbs.
Final Verdict
Now that we’ve come to the end of this insightful guide, we believe our list of the best adjustable trailer hitch has offered some insights that will mitigate the chore of selecting the right option that will work for you. As you have seen, trailer hitches are categorized into five different classes according to the Gross Trailer Weight, the Tongue Weight, and the size of the receiver opening. With this information in mind, it’s always important that you take your time to choose a hitch that will suit your specific vehicle as well as the amount of weight you’ll be towing.