Hitch Size

[WaltandLynne]

Our truck just arrived!! We don't have it yet but it won't be long. Now, here comes the question. We are getting a Reese hitch installed but I don't know what size we should get. We will be towing a 2011 3400RL. The dealer mentioned a 14K, 16K, 20K and a 22K. Which is the best choice?

Thanks for all your expertise!

Lynne

[mail2us]

No mention of an 18k so I'd go for 20k. We have an 18k for our 2008 3400.

[CamillaMichael]

We have the Reese 16k (non-slide)...long bed truck. The 16k is inside the specs for the 3400rl. I have not seen a Reese 14k hitch...so, no idea what its specs are; however, since the 16k is right at the 3400's limit, I would think a 14k hitch would not be adequate...just an opinion since I have absolutely no data on a Reese 14k hitch. You did not mention what you are getting for a truck...it's limitations will obviously need to be taken into consideration.

[ole dude]

What is the maximum weight rating of your new trailer ?? Go up in hitch capacity from there.

[gypsies2]

Not sure what your weight is but I would go for the 16K or 20K. We have a 2011 2955rl and I have a 20K. Works great and it just feel good to have the extra capability in case we move to something larger.

[exav8tr]

Your GVW of the 3400 will be very close to the 16K limit. I would go for the 20K at least. Think "Safety Margin".

[CmdrDewey]

We have towed with a 16 for 8 years now with never a problem. I think more is a bit of overkill but if you can afford it, go for it. The 14 will do it but I believe the 14 does not come with side to side tilt. that is very helpful.

[ONERUNNING]

Lynne, I'm pulling a 2010 3400RL with a shortbed TV. The shipping weight of the 2010 is 12460 lbs. and a carrying capacity of 3180 lbs, giving a total of 15640. I don't know if we'll ever load 3180 lbs of clothing, dishing, pots and pans,or what ever. But I went with a Reese 16K Slider. If I had it to do over, I think I would be looking at the 18K. I know for a fact that Reese makes the 18K.
Hope this help a little.
Joe

[WaltandLynne]

Thanks for all the information, folks! I don't know what the maximum weight is for the 3400rl but will look it up. Our truck is a 2011 Chevy Silverado, SRW, 1 ton, long bed.

It sounds like the 20K would be the safest alternative although it is more than is what is probably needed. I think I will look into the 18K that was mentioned. Also, we have a Mor-rhyde (??) hitch. What about the air cushion type hitches? (You can tell that I am a newbie on all of this!)

Walt will be home soon so he will make the final decision. I am the research person!

Best - Lynne

[exav8tr]

Lynne, I, and several others, have the TrailerSaver Air Ride hitch. We love it. We did tow with a rigid hitch prior to this one and really notice the difference in motion while in the truck. We also feel that we have increased the longevity of the trailer by going with a "floating" type hitch as oppossed to the rigid hitches. Having said this, there is quite a bit of price difference between the two. There are also other brands of an air hitch that you may consider. Fifth Airborne makes a very good hitch as does "Air Safe". Check them out before you decide....Congrats on the new unit...And a great choice in tow vehicles.....

[Tom S.]

We went with an 18K Reese Signature - just for a little extra peace of mind (of course finding it on sale helped too).

[RickW]

First I would go with a hitch rated higher than your current trailer. The GVW on the 3400RL is almost 16k#. Also if you ever purchase a different trailer that is heavier you should have some room.

Rigid vs Air Hitch: I pulled with a 16k Reese for 4 years with any problems. Still have it in my Ford. I bought a Volvo this year and installed a air ride hitch. I paid more for the air hitch but there is a huge difference in ride/comfort. Personally I will choose to stick with a air ride hitch for any and all future tow vehicles. The rigid hitch will do the job but the air hitch will provide additional comfort with less stress on the trailer.