How Towing Accessories and Hitches Affect Capabilities in Ayden, NC

Essential towing equipment to invest

Before you hitch anything to the back of your Ford pickup or SUV, check the vehicle's towing capacity in the owner’s manual. If you’re not sure how much your Ford pickup can carry, check out our guide to the towing capacities of the 2024 Ford truck lineup. Once you know your Ford has the power to carry the load you need to transport, make sure you have the right towing accessories to get the job done. If you’ve just purchased your first pickup truck, below is a list of essential towing equipment you should invest in.

Trailer Hitch

The number one tool you’ll need is a trailer hitch. There are several types of trailer hitches on the market, but they all perform the same job differently. Essentially, a trailer hitch is a metal receiver used to connect your truck or SUV to a trailer. Our parts center offers several trailer hitches with varying towing capacities, ranging from 3,500 to more than 14,000. The trailer hitch you choose won’t increase the amount of weight your vehicle can carry, but it’s important to choose a hitch that has a weight rating that allows you to maximize your vehicle's capabilities.

Gooseneck Hitch

The most common type of hitch is a bumper-mounted hitch, and it’s used to carry a typical trailer. Gooseneck hitches, on the other hand, are mounted in the bed of a pickup truck directly over the rear axle and are designed to handle heavier loads and increase maneuverability. A gooseneck can allow your vehicle to reach its maximum towing capacity.

Fifth-Wheel Hitch

Fifth-wheel hitches are also mounted in the bed of a pickup truck, but they are mounted slightly above the rear axle. This hitch's coupling method includes a kingpin on the trailer and a household-shaped coupling on the truck. It is commonly used with RVs and large trailers. Like a gooseneck hitch, it provides better stability, improves maneuverability, and enables the pickup truck to reach its full towing potential

Common and Essential Towing Accessories

• Trailer Brakes: Trailer brakes might be necessary if you’re towing a heavy trailer. This will ensure that your trailer has adequate stopping power.
• Ball Mount: Ball mounts attach to the trailer hitch receiver and provide a point of connection for the trailer coupler. They come in different heights to adjust to the height of your trailer.
• Wiring Harness: A wiring harness is essential for transmitting electrical signals between your truck and trailer, including signals for taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
• Trailer Hitch Receiver Size: Most Ford hitches have a 2-inch receiver opening, which is the standard size for most trailers and towing accessories.

GMC Towing Accessories for Sale in Ayden, NC

The parts department at Doug Henry Ford of Ayden offers OEM and high-quality aftermarket accessories to help you maximize the towing capability of your GMC truck or SUV. Visit us today for all your towing and trailering needs.