I've looked at several threads, but I still have some basic hitch questions. I called quadratec, but and asked whether I would want a Class II or III for my 2-door X, and the guy suggested that I "really don't want to tow ANYTHING" with my jeep. Thanks.

I think a class III is what I'm looking for (looking to tow small utility trailer, maybe a very small boat at some point- definitely nothing nearing the recommended towing limit of 2000 lbs- prob not even approaching 1000 lbs.)

So, first, am I looking for a class III?

Second, Why do some look like this...

and others look like this...


Is there a benefit (or drawback) with one over the other?

Thanks a lot.

 

Good question. Maybe just a stock photo?!?!
I've never seen the bottom one on a new JK.
The top one is like the factory hitch.

 

I think the first one is like a 1/4'' and the bottom one is a 2'' reciever.

 

Get a class III 2" hitch. Do not buy a 1-1/4" receiver hitch (if you can even find one). As for why they look different in the pic's, I think it's because they are for different vehicles. As far as the Quadratec rep saying you don't want to tow with a JK: Call him back and ask him why Mopar offers this hitch:

Mopar Hitch Receiver

Also, get the Mopar wiring harness for the JK--it will make getting the electrical part of the install a piece of cake.

 

top is 2" also.

 

I have the first setup. Installed great and works great as well. Also has a small footprint coming off the back of the Jeep. 2" receiver is the way to go. Good luck.

 

I removed the tow hook from my JK and cut the tow loop off of the bracket with a torch. I then purchased a 2" receiver tube from my farm and home store. I simply welded the tube onto the original bracket and bolted it back on. Cost me $19.00. Of course, I wouldn't use this to tow a trailer with more than 50-60 lbs. of tounge weight. I use it for my kids bicycle rack. It actually looks pretty good and saved me a bunch of $$.

David Gore
Kearney, MO

 

Just to clarify: the top picture is from the Quadratec site (for a JK) and the bottom one is from JCWhitney. Theyt're both for a JK and both class III. 2" I believe.

 

That first hitch doesn't look strong enough to recover a jeep with. I was looking to get something like that for a recovery point. Has anyone ever ripped that off?

 

That first one is what you would get from the factory. It is rated classIII. So I don't think it would rip off during a recovery. It is bolted directly to the crossmember of the frame. Can't say for sure, but I've not heard of any failures myself.