Valley Hitches
The trailer towing industry has developed a classification system that differentiates hitches according to the amount of weight they can tow. This system addresses tongue weight and total weight. Keep in mind that within each classification are numerous hitches made by a variety of manufacturers.
The three most common types of trailer hitches are:
Weight-carrying hitch
Weight-carrying hitches are designed to carry all of the trailer’s tongue weight.
The weight-distributing (or load equalizer) hitch
Weight-distributing hitches are used with a receiver hitch and special parts that distribute the tongue weight among all tow vehicle and trailer axles.
Fifth-wheel hitches
Fifth-wheel hitches are designed for mounting the trailer connection point in the middle of the truck bed.
Gooseneck hitches
These hitches are made for gooseneck trailers.
When purchasing a trailer hitch, use the recommendations of the manufacturer of the tow vehicle and trailer based on the type and weight of the trailer.
Make sure the hitch has provisions for the connection of safety chains, which are required by most states. When connected, safety chains should have some slack to permit sharp turns but should not drag on the road. In addition, they should cross under the trailer tongue to help prevent the tongue from dropping to the road in the event the trailer separates from the tow vehicle.