The Hookup
Whether you own a travel trailer or fifth wheel, these manufacturers offer proven, quality products and accessories to enhance your towing experience
By: Chris Hemer and Tom Morr / Photos Courtesy the manufacturers
O
nce you’ve established the type of trailer you want to purchase (travel trailer or fifth wheel) the search for a hitch system begins. As with RVs, there are plenty of choices to serve every need, application and budget — and usually several different options to help make your towing experience safer and more enjoyable. To help give you an idea of what’s available, we’re presenting this handy hitch and accessories guide. As you peruse each company’s offerings, keep in mind that almost every company featured offers a variety of products and accessories — we just can’t fit them all within these pages. So, if you see a product that strikes your fancy, be sure to visit that company’s website, because there’s sure to be more for you to consider. There are also many smaller manufacturers that may offer a hitch or related product to fit your needs, so take your time and shop wisely.
Travel Trailer Hitch Products
Andersen Hitches offers weight distribution hitches that are engineered to provide smooth and simple travel-trailer towing. Andersen’s silent “no-sway, no-bounce” weight distribution hitch is designed to raise the bar — but also eliminates it. Removing the need for heavy draw bars, this hitch line uses motion-dampening tension chains that act as shock absorbers and features an integrated sway-control system that adjusts to load. Weighing less than 60 pounds, the hitch is rated up to 16,000 pounds gross trailer weight (GTW) and 1,500 pounds of hitch weight. With its simple design, installation is intended to take only a few minutes, according to the company. MSRPs range from $549.99 to $619.99. Andersen Hitches, (208) 523-6460, andersenhitches.com
Blue Ox
Blue Ox Adjustable Ball Mounts provide an easy way to level the hitch ball with the trailer coupler. Simply pull the two pins, slide the ball mount up or down the shank to the proper height and prepare to hook up. Blue Ox adjustable ball mounts feature a pre-installed 2-inch hitch ball and include a clamshell that converts the ball to a 2 5/16-inch coupler. Ball mounts are available for 2-inch and 2-1/2-inch receivers in 4-inch drop/rise and 7-inch drop/rise configurations. The 2-inch ball mounts are rated to 10,000 pounds, with the 2-1/2-inch ball mounts rated to 12,000 pounds. MSRPs range from $249 to $299. Blue Ox, (800) 228-9289, blueox.com
Blue Ox Adjustable Ball Mounts provide an easy way to level the hitch ball with the trailer coupler. Simply pull the two pins, slide the ball mount up or down the shank to the proper height and prepare to hook up. Blue Ox adjustable ball mounts feature a pre-installed 2-inch hitch ball and include a clamshell that converts the ball to a 2 5/16-inch coupler. Ball mounts are available for 2-inch and 2-1/2-inch receivers in 4-inch drop/rise and 7-inch drop/rise configurations. The 2-inch ball mounts are rated to 10,000 pounds, with the 2-1/2-inch ball mounts rated to 12,000 pounds. MSRPs range from $249 to $299. Blue Ox, (800) 228-9289, blueox.com
Taking the Sway Away
Towing a travel trailer nearly always includes some amount of trailer sway, a condition that can get downright frightening if it becomes bad enough — and if it’s not controlled, could result in an accident.
Travel trailer sway can be caused by a number of factors. One of the most common is insufficient hitch weight, which may be caused by the trailer’s design, or the way the trailer is loaded. Longer, light-weight or “ultra-light” trailers have more surface area for the wind to blow against — and when combined with the reduced mass, make them easier to push around.
But even if your trailer has at least 10% of its weight over the hitch, which you can determine by weighing it on a public scale (see “Worth the Weight” elsewhere in this issue) and it is correctly loaded, you may still experience trailer sway that is bad enough to make you feel uncomfortable while towing. We know of some RVers who won’t even tow at all on windy days for fear that they could lose control of their rig. If you’re new to RVing and are just beginning to shop for equipment, you should consider a hitch system that incorporates sway control. If you already own a hitch, often a sway control unit can be added. These are typically friction-type sway control systems that make it more difficult for sway to begin but aren’t designed to stop it once it starts. If you want to eliminate sway altogether, consider a complete hitch system designed for this purpose, or an add-on electronic sway-control system. They’re not cheap, but both have been proven to be extremely effective.
If you ever encounter trailer sway while towing, release the throttle and apply the trailer brakes only using the brake controller — do not apply the tow vehicle’s brakes. The trailer brake application will force the trailer to pull itself straight again and will help slow the combo at the same time. If you think the sway was speed related (it often can be) take note of your speed and when the sway occurred and slow down.
The Tuson Sway Control (TSC 1000) by Tuson RV Brakes is an electronic sway control solution featuring a patented asymmetric system (independent left- and right-side braking) that continuously monitors trailer yaw, rapidly identifying a trailer sway condition and applying braking force on one side of the trailer at a time, directly counteracting trailer sway with minimal speed loss and greater stability/control, according to the company. Each TSC comes with a wired red/green LED light to show the functional status of the unit with different flashing modes for diagnostic troubleshooting. The unit is designed to be mounted on the trailer in an easy to see location from your tow vehicle mirrors. The TSC is wired directly into the trailer braking system and automatically adjusts to improve braking effectiveness, and even detects off-road towing conditions. MSRP: $550. Tuson RV Brakes, LLC, (800) 968-8766, tusonrvbrakes.com
The Sway Command by Lippert Components promotes safe towing by applying the trailer brakes before a major sway event can get out of control, according to the company. Incorporating advanced microprocessor technology, Sway Command electronically detects trailer sway and applies the trailer brakes to suppress unwanted sway. At the same time, an integrated accelerometer and gyro sensor quickly and accurately differentiate between side-to-side and up-and-down movement to prevent false activation. A light pod mounts to the front of the trailer and signals to the driver when the system is functioning properly. MSRP: $396.95. Lippert Components, (574) 537-8900, store.lci1.com
Bullet Proof Hitches
Rated for up to 36,000 pounds, we’d have to say that Bullet Proof Hitches are aptly named. These heavy-duty, solid-steel-gusseted ball mounts are available with a drop/rise of 4 inches all the way up to 16 inches for seriously lifted trucks. Height adjustable by pulling two pins, each model comes with a dual Bullet Proof Ball featuring either a 1-7/8 and 2-5/16-inch ball or a 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch ball. Made in the USA, Bullet Proof Hitches exceed SAE-J684 testing requirements and have never experienced a single failure, according to the company. MSRP: $179-$499. Bullet Proof Hitches, (941) 251-8110, bulletproofhitches.com
Rated for up to 36,000 pounds, we’d have to say that Bullet Proof Hitches are aptly named. These heavy-duty, solid-steel-gusseted ball mounts are available with a drop/rise of 4 inches all the way up to 16 inches for seriously lifted trucks. Height adjustable by pulling two pins, each model comes with a dual Bullet Proof Ball featuring either a 1-7/8 and 2-5/16-inch ball or a 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch ball. Made in the USA, Bullet Proof Hitches exceed SAE-J684 testing requirements and have never experienced a single failure, according to the company. MSRP: $179-$499. Bullet Proof Hitches, (941) 251-8110, bulletproofhitches.com
Curt Manufacturing
The Curt Rebellion XD adjustable ball mount is said to provide more control, confidence and a more comfortable ride, all while protecting your towing system from jerking, jarring, rattling and trailer sway. Constructed with ShockDrop technology, the Rebellion XD ball mount features a cushioned isolator that inserts between the receiver shank and vertical shank. The isolator provides dynamic, adaptive suspension of the coupling point designed to reduce jerking and jarring for a more comfortable towing experience. MSRP: Approximately $500. Curt Manufacturing, (877) 287-8634, curtmfg.com
The Curt Rebellion XD adjustable ball mount is said to provide more control, confidence and a more comfortable ride, all while protecting your towing system from jerking, jarring, rattling and trailer sway. Constructed with ShockDrop technology, the Rebellion XD ball mount features a cushioned isolator that inserts between the receiver shank and vertical shank. The isolator provides dynamic, adaptive suspension of the coupling point designed to reduce jerking and jarring for a more comfortable towing experience. MSRP: Approximately $500. Curt Manufacturing, (877) 287-8634, curtmfg.com
Draw-Tite
Draw-Tite manufactures numerous Class III (shown) and Class V trailer hitches to meet a wide range of towing needs. From light-duty around-town to 18,000-pound heavy-duty cross-country towing, Draw-Tite has products for an extensive range of applications. Designed specifically for individual vehicle makes and model years for a superior fit and easy installation, Draw-Tite hitches are tested to meet and exceed the highest standards for maximum strength and safety. Made to last, these hitches feature paint finishes that fight rust and corrosion, and every hitch comes with a nationwide limited lifetime warranty. MSRP: Depends on application. Draw-Tite, (800) 632-3290, draw-tite.com
Draw-Tite manufactures numerous Class III (shown) and Class V trailer hitches to meet a wide range of towing needs. From light-duty around-town to 18,000-pound heavy-duty cross-country towing, Draw-Tite has products for an extensive range of applications. Designed specifically for individual vehicle makes and model years for a superior fit and easy installation, Draw-Tite hitches are tested to meet and exceed the highest standards for maximum strength and safety. Made to last, these hitches feature paint finishes that fight rust and corrosion, and every hitch comes with a nationwide limited lifetime warranty. MSRP: Depends on application. Draw-Tite, (800) 632-3290, draw-tite.com
Keeping an Eye on PSI
For decades, the only way to safely monitor tire inflation pressure was to check it manually before travel and during fuel stops. While this is still a good habit to maintain, it won’t help if you start to lose pressure in one or more tires as you travel down the road. That’s why a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is such a worthwhile addition. By constantly keeping tabs on all tires as you travel (including the tow vehicle and trailer or towed vehicle), a TPMS can let you know the instant a tire starts to lose pressure or heat up, allowing you to address the problem before it gets catastrophic. At the very least, a good TPMS can save you a lot of money, making it possible to have a tire fixed rather than replaced.
Truck System Technologies 507 Series TPMS features a 3.5-inch color display that offers real-time tire pressure (up to 218 psi) and temperature information for up to 38 tires. High- and low-pressure alarm levels are user adjustable, and the display can monitor up to four different towed vehicles/trailers with audible and visual alerts. TST offers some nice benefits as well, such as a standard repeater (booster) and your choice of cap or flow-through external sensors with replaceable batteries. tsttruck.com
If your tow vehicle already has a factory TPMS installed, perhaps all you need is a four-tire TPMS kit like the new TireMinder TM-77-4. The kit features updated software and a large display to make monitoring your trailer or towed vehicle easier than ever, according to the company. A large, crystal-clear 3.25-inch display is capable of monitoring pressure and temperature of up to 22 tires (0 to 232 PSI) every six seconds. It also provides visual, audible, and blow-out alarms and low/high-pressure and high-temp alerts. minderresearch.com
Camco
Camco claims that its Eaz-Lift R3 and R6 are the company’s most user-friendly weight-distribution hitches, and having seen them in action, we understand why. Both hitches employ a mono trunnion with inverted bent bar design, which means the bars load from the top, making setup easier. A collar with brake pad material clamps down around the center spindle of the hitch for constant, but adjustable, sway control with the turn of a bolt on the R3 model. The R6 adds adaptive sway control, which can be switched on/off with the turn of an Allen head bolt; when backing or making a low-speed turn, the adaptive sway control will disengage once the trailer has rotated about 10 degrees off center. Driving down the highway, the R6 sway control adapts to driving conditions in real time, according to the company, providing the right amount of sway control for the conditions at hand. MSRP: $470-$948. Camco Manufacturing, (800) 334-2004; eaz-lift.com
Camco claims that its Eaz-Lift R3 and R6 are the company’s most user-friendly weight-distribution hitches, and having seen them in action, we understand why. Both hitches employ a mono trunnion with inverted bent bar design, which means the bars load from the top, making setup easier. A collar with brake pad material clamps down around the center spindle of the hitch for constant, but adjustable, sway control with the turn of a bolt on the R3 model. The R6 adds adaptive sway control, which can be switched on/off with the turn of an Allen head bolt; when backing or making a low-speed turn, the adaptive sway control will disengage once the trailer has rotated about 10 degrees off center. Driving down the highway, the R6 sway control adapts to driving conditions in real time, according to the company, providing the right amount of sway control for the conditions at hand. MSRP: $470-$948. Camco Manufacturing, (800) 334-2004; eaz-lift.com
Hensley Manufacturing
The Hensley Arrow is a unique design that virtually eliminates trailer sway by removing the ball as a pivot point, creating a solid connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer through a unique hitch box linkage system and solid-steel strut bars attached to the A-frame of the trailer. When force is applied to the side of the trailer (i.e., strong wind), the hitch keeps the trailer and tow vehicle locked together in a straight line, making it impossible for the trailer to fishtail, according to the company. The trailer can only turn or swivel on the Arrow’s linkage by forces applied by the tow vehicle. The system also incorporates spring bars which are raised and lowered by screw jacks instead of a chain, and the entire system remains attached to the trailer. To hitch up, it’s only necessary to back the 2-inch steel square bar (attached to the tow vehicle) into the 3-inch tapered box on the front of the hitch assembly, then attach the over-center latches and secure with two safety keys. Also available is the Hensley Cub, which works on the same principle as the Arrow, but is designed for smaller trailers. Hensley Manufacturing, Inc. MSRP: $2,875-$3,175 (Arrow); $1,770-$2,070 (Cub). (800) 410-6580, hensleymfg.com
The Hensley Arrow is a unique design that virtually eliminates trailer sway by removing the ball as a pivot point, creating a solid connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer through a unique hitch box linkage system and solid-steel strut bars attached to the A-frame of the trailer. When force is applied to the side of the trailer (i.e., strong wind), the hitch keeps the trailer and tow vehicle locked together in a straight line, making it impossible for the trailer to fishtail, according to the company. The trailer can only turn or swivel on the Arrow’s linkage by forces applied by the tow vehicle. The system also incorporates spring bars which are raised and lowered by screw jacks instead of a chain, and the entire system remains attached to the trailer. To hitch up, it’s only necessary to back the 2-inch steel square bar (attached to the tow vehicle) into the 3-inch tapered box on the front of the hitch assembly, then attach the over-center latches and secure with two safety keys. Also available is the Hensley Cub, which works on the same principle as the Arrow, but is designed for smaller trailers. Hensley Manufacturing, Inc. MSRP: $2,875-$3,175 (Arrow); $1,770-$2,070 (Cub). (800) 410-6580, hensleymfg.com
Progress Manufacturing
The original Equal-i-zer hitch has been around for more than 70 years, and its simple design is still a favorite with RVers. What looks like a typical weight-distributing system is actually a four-point sway-control hitch with linear friction on the hitch bars and two points of rotational friction at the patented Equal-i-zer ball mount. Easy to adjust and use, the Equal-i-zer doesn’t use chains or add-on sway control devices, so it can be hitched up from virtually any angle, according to the company. Made in the USA from American steel, the Equal-i-zer is backed by a lifetime warranty. MSRP: $717.95-$827. Progress Manufacturing, (800) 478-5578, equalizerhitch.com
The original Equal-i-zer hitch has been around for more than 70 years, and its simple design is still a favorite with RVers. What looks like a typical weight-distributing system is actually a four-point sway-control hitch with linear friction on the hitch bars and two points of rotational friction at the patented Equal-i-zer ball mount. Easy to adjust and use, the Equal-i-zer doesn’t use chains or add-on sway control devices, so it can be hitched up from virtually any angle, according to the company. Made in the USA from American steel, the Equal-i-zer is backed by a lifetime warranty. MSRP: $717.95-$827. Progress Manufacturing, (800) 478-5578, equalizerhitch.com
Torklift International
Torklift’s SuperHitch Magnum features the company’s patented dual-receiver system (2.5-inch upper, 2-inch lower) for added strength, or the option of adding accessories to the top receiver. Rated to tow up to 30,000 pounds/3,000 pounds hitch weight (weight distributing) or up to 20,000 pounds/2,500 pounds hitch weight (weight carrying), the SuperHitch Magnum also features hardened, reinforced hitch pin locations to prevent “egging” the holes (making them out of round) when pulling heavy loads over long periods. The SuperHitch Magnum does not require drilling in most applications and is backed by Torklift’s Legendary Lifetime Warranty. Also available are the SuperHitch 15K and 20K. MSRPs begin at $972.99. Torklift International, (844) 369-9358, torklift.com
Torklift’s SuperHitch Magnum features the company’s patented dual-receiver system (2.5-inch upper, 2-inch lower) for added strength, or the option of adding accessories to the top receiver. Rated to tow up to 30,000 pounds/3,000 pounds hitch weight (weight distributing) or up to 20,000 pounds/2,500 pounds hitch weight (weight carrying), the SuperHitch Magnum also features hardened, reinforced hitch pin locations to prevent “egging” the holes (making them out of round) when pulling heavy loads over long periods. The SuperHitch Magnum does not require drilling in most applications and is backed by Torklift’s Legendary Lifetime Warranty. Also available are the SuperHitch 15K and 20K. MSRPs begin at $972.99. Torklift International, (844) 369-9358, torklift.com
5th Wheel Hitch Products
Andersen Hitches
The Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection by Andersen is engineered to be the smoothest, lightest and strongest fifth wheel hitch available, according to the company. It is designed as an easy one-person solution to install, hook up and go. The pyramid design allows for a strong, yet light, base that weighs less than 40 pounds. The Ultimate Connection is rated to handle up to 24,000 pounds of GTW (20,000 pounds for the rail-mount version) and 4,500 pounds hitch weight. Every Ultimate Connection includes a kingpin adapter, featuring a ball-funnel for easy hook-up. This ball-funnel guides the ball into place, even when positioned off-center. MSRPs range from $729.99 to $1,139.99. Andersen Hitches, (208) 523-6460, andersenhitches.com
The Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection by Andersen is engineered to be the smoothest, lightest and strongest fifth wheel hitch available, according to the company. It is designed as an easy one-person solution to install, hook up and go. The pyramid design allows for a strong, yet light, base that weighs less than 40 pounds. The Ultimate Connection is rated to handle up to 24,000 pounds of GTW (20,000 pounds for the rail-mount version) and 4,500 pounds hitch weight. Every Ultimate Connection includes a kingpin adapter, featuring a ball-funnel for easy hook-up. This ball-funnel guides the ball into place, even when positioned off-center. MSRPs range from $729.99 to $1,139.99. Andersen Hitches, (208) 523-6460, andersenhitches.com
B&W Trailer Hitches
The Companion hitch from B&W is one of the original fifth-wheel hitches designed for easy installation/removal, thanks to a unique mounting system attached to the frame underneath the bed. A single 4-inch hole in the bed, flush with the surface, contains a receiver that the single post of the Companion slides into. After the Companion base is set into the receiver hole, a lever in the driver’s side wheel well is turned, engaging a pin through the post. A draw-down bolt on top of the post creates upward pressure on the pin, and a locking bracket holds the bolt in place. At 131 pounds, the Companion RVK3500 base is no lightweight, but once it’s removed you’re left with a flat load floor. The RVK3500 Companion has a 20,000-pound gross trailer weight rating and can handle up to 5,000 pounds of pin weight MSRP: $999. B&W Trailer Hitches, (800) 810-4918, bwtrailerhitches.com
The Companion hitch from B&W is one of the original fifth-wheel hitches designed for easy installation/removal, thanks to a unique mounting system attached to the frame underneath the bed. A single 4-inch hole in the bed, flush with the surface, contains a receiver that the single post of the Companion slides into. After the Companion base is set into the receiver hole, a lever in the driver’s side wheel well is turned, engaging a pin through the post. A draw-down bolt on top of the post creates upward pressure on the pin, and a locking bracket holds the bolt in place. At 131 pounds, the Companion RVK3500 base is no lightweight, but once it’s removed you’re left with a flat load floor. The RVK3500 Companion has a 20,000-pound gross trailer weight rating and can handle up to 5,000 pounds of pin weight MSRP: $999. B&W Trailer Hitches, (800) 810-4918, bwtrailerhitches.com
Curt Manufacturing
For big fifth wheel towing, Curt offers the PowerRide 30K hitch. It features a 30,000-pound towing/7,500-pound vertical load capacity, a cast head with integrated wear plates, an easy-to-use self-resetting handle and strategic grip points for improved handling. With its cast steel construction, this hitch was designed for dependable strength, and it is thoroughly tested to SAE J2638 specifications for safety. Another premium feature is the integrated wear plates. This is designed to provide mess-free, hassle-free operation — unlike lube plates and traditional greasing methods. MSRP: $1,383. Curt Manufacturing, (877) 287-8634, curtmfg.com
For big fifth wheel towing, Curt offers the PowerRide 30K hitch. It features a 30,000-pound towing/7,500-pound vertical load capacity, a cast head with integrated wear plates, an easy-to-use self-resetting handle and strategic grip points for improved handling. With its cast steel construction, this hitch was designed for dependable strength, and it is thoroughly tested to SAE J2638 specifications for safety. Another premium feature is the integrated wear plates. This is designed to provide mess-free, hassle-free operation — unlike lube plates and traditional greasing methods. MSRP: $1,383. Curt Manufacturing, (877) 287-8634, curtmfg.com
Demco Manufacturing
Demco’s Recon Gooseneck Ball Mount is a lightweight geometric design that fits 4-inch tall, 2 5/16-inch gooseneck ball mounts that have a rating of at least 21,000 pounds. Made in the USA, The Recon can be easily separated into two pieces to make installation and removal quick and easy. The Recon utilizes a standard fifth-wheel head design — no adapter plate or pin box modifications are needed. Demco Manufacturing, (800) 543-3626, demco-products.com
Demco’s Recon Gooseneck Ball Mount is a lightweight geometric design that fits 4-inch tall, 2 5/16-inch gooseneck ball mounts that have a rating of at least 21,000 pounds. Made in the USA, The Recon can be easily separated into two pieces to make installation and removal quick and easy. The Recon utilizes a standard fifth-wheel head design — no adapter plate or pin box modifications are needed. Demco Manufacturing, (800) 543-3626, demco-products.com
PullRite
PullRite’s new model #3900 is a lightweight, convenient alternative to both aluminum adapters and heavier steel hitches that attach to a gooseneck ball. With a lifting weight of only 75 pounds, the #3900 has been thoroughly tested to SAE J2638 standards and achieved a GVWR of 24,000 pounds. The unit mounts to any aftermarket or OE-style 2 5/16-inch gooseneck ball, including PullRite’s patented #4436 cam-action OE Ball. The #3900’s flexible design allows the trailer’s kingpin to be positioned near the axle, allowing for a tighter turning radius, regardless of the truck’s bed length, according to the company. MSRP: $1,175. PullRite, (800) 443-2307, pullrite.com
PullRite’s new model #3900 is a lightweight, convenient alternative to both aluminum adapters and heavier steel hitches that attach to a gooseneck ball. With a lifting weight of only 75 pounds, the #3900 has been thoroughly tested to SAE J2638 standards and achieved a GVWR of 24,000 pounds. The unit mounts to any aftermarket or OE-style 2 5/16-inch gooseneck ball, including PullRite’s patented #4436 cam-action OE Ball. The #3900’s flexible design allows the trailer’s kingpin to be positioned near the axle, allowing for a tighter turning radius, regardless of the truck’s bed length, according to the company. MSRP: $1,175. PullRite, (800) 443-2307, pullrite.com
Reese Products The Reese M5 Fifth Wheel Hitch is designed for optimal performance: more capacity, more comfort and more versatility. With a maximum weight-rating capacity of up to 32,000 pounds, the M5 features a modular design, allowing for flexibility and increased ease of assembly. With its patented ready-to-receive Talon Jaw, high-pin lockout system and easy-slide handle, you can spend less time worrying about hooking up and more time enjoying the journey. The M5 combines the latest in technology, rugged endurance and sleek design. Reese Products, (800) 632-3290, reeseprod.com
Roadmaster, Inc. Jolting, jarring and chucking are the characteristics of fifth wheel towing that RVers hate the most. According to the company, the Comfort Ride fifth wheel hitch by Roadmaster is designed to smooth out your towing experience with the help of high-density foam cells that are easily removable to adjust ride quality. A four-way coupler eliminates stress on the trailer pin, while an EZ lock coupler with automatically locking jaws makes hitching easier. The Comfort Ride is made in America out of high-grade steel and is available in three models: The 184 (rated up to 18,000 pounds GTW/4,000 pounds pin weight) the 245 (rated up to 24,000 pounds GTW/5,000 pounds pin weight) and the 308 (up to 30,000 pounds GTW and 8,000 pounds of pin weight). All Comfort Ride models are compatible with popular rail and OEM puck-mounting systems and come with a replaceable, self-lubricating anti-friction pad. MSRP: $2,575-$3,900. Roadmaster, Inc. (800) 669-9690 ext. 172, roadmasterinc.com
Towing Accessories
Curt Manufacturing
The Curt Tri-Ball Universal Coupler Lock offers premium security for virtually any coupler-style trailer. It fits 1-7/8-inch, 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch couplers. Whatever trailer you’re towing, the tri-ball is designed to provide a perfect fit and allow one lock to be used on all of your trailers. The combination of the triple-ball insert and lasso lock provides enhanced security, whether the trailer is hooked up or parked and left unattended. The tri-ball insert not only prevents coupling, it also features a vibrant orange color. This increases the lock’s visibility and lets potential thieves know your trailer is not an easy target. MSRP: $27. Curt Manufacturing, (877) 287-8634, curtmfg.com
The Curt Tri-Ball Universal Coupler Lock offers premium security for virtually any coupler-style trailer. It fits 1-7/8-inch, 2-inch and 2-5/16-inch couplers. Whatever trailer you’re towing, the tri-ball is designed to provide a perfect fit and allow one lock to be used on all of your trailers. The combination of the triple-ball insert and lasso lock provides enhanced security, whether the trailer is hooked up or parked and left unattended. The tri-ball insert not only prevents coupling, it also features a vibrant orange color. This increases the lock’s visibility and lets potential thieves know your trailer is not an easy target. MSRP: $27. Curt Manufacturing, (877) 287-8634, curtmfg.com
Draw-Tite
The Draw-Tite I-Command is a proportional braking controller designed to provide smooth braking response based on the tow vehicle’s deceleration; faster deceleration proportionally increases braking power. The I-Command also offers manual control, activated by squeezing the trigger located on the front of the unit. Its boost function allows the user to apply more initial braking for up to four-axle trailers. Snap-in clips allow the I-Command to be easily removed and stored, and the unit doesn’t require level mounting to operate properly. A self-diagnostic feature shows alerts on the LED readout. MSRP: around $75. Draw-Tite, (800) 632-3290, draw-tite.com
The Draw-Tite I-Command is a proportional braking controller designed to provide smooth braking response based on the tow vehicle’s deceleration; faster deceleration proportionally increases braking power. The I-Command also offers manual control, activated by squeezing the trigger located on the front of the unit. Its boost function allows the user to apply more initial braking for up to four-axle trailers. Snap-in clips allow the I-Command to be easily removed and stored, and the unit doesn’t require level mounting to operate properly. A self-diagnostic feature shows alerts on the LED readout. MSRP: around $75. Draw-Tite, (800) 632-3290, draw-tite.com
Redarc
Redarc offers two models of proportional-style brake controllers. For on-road use, the Tow-Pro Liberty (shown) is a cost-effective controller for one- and two-axle trailers. Other features include active calibration and fault-code detection. The Tow-Pro Elite is engineered for on- and off-road performance. The system’s three-axis accelerometer is designed to work in any position, controlling up to three axles. Two switchable modes offer inertia-sensing Proportional Mode for road conditions and a User Controlled manual mode for off-road scenarios. Both models bundle a dash-mountable control knob with an out-of-the-way main unit to provide a factory look with no knee-knocking. Minimum Advertised Prices (MAP): Tow-Pro Liberty – $135, Tow-Pro Elite – $208.16. Redarc Electronics, (704) 247-5150, redarcelectronics.com
Redarc offers two models of proportional-style brake controllers. For on-road use, the Tow-Pro Liberty (shown) is a cost-effective controller for one- and two-axle trailers. Other features include active calibration and fault-code detection. The Tow-Pro Elite is engineered for on- and off-road performance. The system’s three-axis accelerometer is designed to work in any position, controlling up to three axles. Two switchable modes offer inertia-sensing Proportional Mode for road conditions and a User Controlled manual mode for off-road scenarios. Both models bundle a dash-mountable control knob with an out-of-the-way main unit to provide a factory look with no knee-knocking. Minimum Advertised Prices (MAP): Tow-Pro Liberty – $135, Tow-Pro Elite – $208.16. Redarc Electronics, (704) 247-5150, redarcelectronics.com
Reese Products
The Brakeman IV from Reese Products is a timed brake controller for up to four-axle trailers. It sends an initial amount of braking power to the trailer. After a timed delay, the controller progressively increases power all the way to full braking. A digital output indicator displays system status, and a thumbwheel permits convenient manual power adjustment. Other features include manual override control and an overload indicator. Installation is designed to be plug-and-play, and the Brakeman IV can be mounted in any position. It is covered by a limited lifetime warranty. MSRP: around $50. Reese Products, (800) 632-3290, reeseprod.com
The Brakeman IV from Reese Products is a timed brake controller for up to four-axle trailers. It sends an initial amount of braking power to the trailer. After a timed delay, the controller progressively increases power all the way to full braking. A digital output indicator displays system status, and a thumbwheel permits convenient manual power adjustment. Other features include manual override control and an overload indicator. Installation is designed to be plug-and-play, and the Brakeman IV can be mounted in any position. It is covered by a limited lifetime warranty. MSRP: around $50. Reese Products, (800) 632-3290, reeseprod.com
Tekonsha
The Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller utilizes proportional brake control technology that senses the type of braking event, and then applies appropriate power to the trailer brakes. Storable settings allow the user to store up to five different braking profiles, giving personalized preferences at the push of a button for multiple users and/or multiple trailers. The goal is to provide a smooth response in any stopping situation, so you can brake with confidence. MSRP: around $150. Tekonsha, (800) 632-3290, tekonsha.com
The Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller utilizes proportional brake control technology that senses the type of braking event, and then applies appropriate power to the trailer brakes. Storable settings allow the user to store up to five different braking profiles, giving personalized preferences at the push of a button for multiple users and/or multiple trailers. The goal is to provide a smooth response in any stopping situation, so you can brake with confidence. MSRP: around $150. Tekonsha, (800) 632-3290, tekonsha.com
Torklift International
A truck camper with a rear overhang can make it near impossible to tow a trailer with a standard receiver-type hitch. Torklift solves this problem with its SuperTruss extension units designed exclusively for its SuperHitch and SuperHitch Magnum hitch receivers. Available in eight lengths raging from 21 to 60 inches, the patented truss design utilizes dual receivers, which produces higher weight capacities than extensions without this feature, according to Torklift. Representative safe tow ratings are up to 14,000 pounds/1,400 pounds of hitch weight on a 21-inch extension and 12,000 pounds/1,200 pounds of hitch weight on a 48-inch extension. The SuperTruss is backed by a lifetime warranty and is made in the USA. MSRPs begin at $672.17. Torklift International, (844) 369-9358, torklift.com
A truck camper with a rear overhang can make it near impossible to tow a trailer with a standard receiver-type hitch. Torklift solves this problem with its SuperTruss extension units designed exclusively for its SuperHitch and SuperHitch Magnum hitch receivers. Available in eight lengths raging from 21 to 60 inches, the patented truss design utilizes dual receivers, which produces higher weight capacities than extensions without this feature, according to Torklift. Representative safe tow ratings are up to 14,000 pounds/1,400 pounds of hitch weight on a 21-inch extension and 12,000 pounds/1,200 pounds of hitch weight on a 48-inch extension. The SuperTruss is backed by a lifetime warranty and is made in the USA. MSRPs begin at $672.17. Torklift International, (844) 369-9358, torklift.com