I have a 2" Hidden Hitch aftermarket hitch that looks just like the top photo...I've done several recoveries with it and also towed my 18 foot boat about 10 times with it, each time pulling it up a pretty steep launch ramp...never had a problem with it. If there's any problem at all with towing, it's with the minivan engine and long grades.

 

I also have the first hitch. VERY sturdy and in fact I replaced the factory hitch with the Hidden Hitch because the latter extends out several inches thereby allowing a ball or off road lock and roll coupler to clear the spare tire.

 

I have the first hitch and it is the same as the factory hitch, bolts to the same points as the factory tow hook. I tow my 20ft boat to the lake and when off road I just slide a reciever to hook adapter in and am ready for recovery.

 

I have the first. It is an easy self install and I bought mine at the local UHaul. Class III 2" receiver.

 

I have the stock hitch (first), and have used it for recovery (including out of deep mud) and it held up fine.

 

I have the first one that you showed. My JK does just fine with a light 16' Jon boat. I'm not sure the second one in the pics is for a JK.




I usually remove the hitch before I do any steep climbs to help with ground clearance. Sometimes I forget to take it off.

 

I have the first style hitch purchased from Quadratec. It takes a 2" receiver. I would also recommend that you pull as light as possible. I pulled a 5' x 8' trailer 600 miles hauling a very light load. It works the Jeep but it did very well. I don't think I would make it a habit...but the 3.8 V6 can handle it. I do plan to buy a light weight aluminum trailer for my hauling needs.

I just don't like the looks of the second trailer hitch under the Jeep. Probably very efficient and would work just fine though.

 

that second one sure looks like they just used a stock photo.

has anyone actually seen that second type on a JK? i know i havent.


I have #1 style (mines OEM)

 

I've used the factory hitch to get pulled out backwards, and it worked seamlessly. It's plenty strong.

 

This was discussed by the Jeep engineers on a another site and they say that if it was not set up at the factory to tow then you should only use a class two and follow the class two towing recommendations. This was due to the axles that are put in and the Rubicon models are the exception to this rule.