I asked this list if a Class III receiver could be used with a
weight-distributing hitch, and got conflicting answers. So I went to some
supposed experts ... and got more conflicting answers! But I thought I'd
share the info.
The Reese web site has a FAQ that states "Class III receivers are
weight-CARRYING only". They also have a capacity table that says "Class
III: weight carrying only". However, when I posed the question to Reese via
e-mail their answer was "The only difference between Class III and Class IV
is the weight ratings -- THEY BOTH CAN BE USED as weight-carrying and
weight-distributing unless the rating sticker says something different".
The Draw-tite web site doesn't come right out and say anything about it, so
I also e-mailed them. Their response was "The majority of 2" receivers have
weight-distributing capabilities. There are some that specify
weight-carrying only".
So, it appears that most Class III receivers are capable of
weight-distributing. If the receiver is capable of weight-distributing, but
classed as a Class III, I would guess that's because the load ratings don't
meet Class IV.
I have also seen many receivers described as "Class III/IV", not clear what
that means at all (maybe Class III when used as weight-carrying, Class IV
when weight-distributing?).
To further the confusion, Reese and Draw-tite have also just introduced some
light-duty weight-distributing kits that "works with ANY 2" hitch receiver".
That means these products work with a Class III receiver. They have
capacities around 3500-4000 lb trailer weight, and 350-400 lb tongue weight
(whereas the "conventional" weight-distributing arrangements are up around
5000/500 or more) ... so apparently, with these new light-duty WD hitches, a
Class III receiver can be used for weight-distributing (and, according to th
e-mails from Reese and Draw-tite, the most Class III's could accept the
conventional WD hitches too).
So maybe it wasn't such a dumb question after all ...
Mark Palmer
_________________________________________________________________
Chat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: http://messenger.msn.com
/// unsubscribe/change address requests to majordomo@autox.team.net or try
/// http://www.team.net/mailman/listinfo
/// Archives at http://www.team.net/archive/shop-talk
|