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    Home » Hitch Extenders: Legal or Not? Let’s Break It Down!
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    Hitch Extenders: Legal or Not? Let’s Break It Down!

    Keith HooverBy Keith HooverApril 4, 2023Updated:April 15, 2023No Comments2 Mins Read
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    Hitch Extenders Legal or Not Let’s Break It Down
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    Hitch extenders can be a lifesaver, providing extra wiggle room and improving the leverage on your hitch.

    But are hitch extenders legal? In a nutshell, they’re on the right side of the law if you play by the rules, which include:

    • Extender length (no more than 4-6 feet)
    • 1/3 of the vehicle’s wheelbase

    Fail to follow these guidelines, and you could end up shelling out some cash for a fine or even face jail time. Let’s dive deeper into the nitty-gritty details!

    Hitch Extenders and the Law: What’s the Deal?

    Using hitch extenders won’t land you in hot water, but it’s crucial to choose the right one that doesn’t ruffle any legal feathers.

    Don’t Stretch It Too Far: Extender Length Matters

    To figure out if tow hitch extenders are legal, you need to measure their length, which shouldn’t exceed 6 feet.

    While there’s no specific mention of hitch extenders in the law, the general rule is that any extender placed on a vehicle’s rear should be between 4 and 6 feet.

    If the extender’s length goes beyond this limit, it’ll obstruct the rear lights (taillights and brake lights), which spells trouble for you and other drivers.

    Ignoring this rule can attract the attention of traffic cops and lead to a fine of $185 or more.

    Formula: 4 x hitch assembly length (from hitch case to ball mount) = Length of the hitch extension.

    Stick to the 1/3 Rule: Wheelbase Length is Key

    When connecting a truck and trailer via a hitch, the connection shouldn’t stretch more than 1/3 or 33% of the rear wheelbase length.

    Common Queries About Hitch Extenders

    Do hitch extenders reduce towing capacity?

    You bet! Extending the hitch point further away decreases the towing capacity since it pushes the load further out. Remember, the longer the hitch extender, the more it impacts towing capacity.

    How far should you extend a hitch?

    A hitch extender should be anywhere between 8″ to 18″, based on average ratings. Aiming for 10″ or 14″ gives you the right balance of leverage and movement without compromising towing capacity too much.

    How do hitch extenders work their magic?

    Hitch extenders fit on top of the hitch receiver point, allowing the weight of the vehicle and trailer to shift further away. This extra space adds leverage and stability to the hitch assembly, ensuring smooth sailing.

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    Keith Hoover
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    Hoover is a mechanic and he loves writing on topics related to trailer hitches. He has been in the business for many years and he has seen it all when it comes to hitches. He has seen them break, he has seen them bend, and he has even seen them completely fall off of trailers. That's why he knows the importance of having a good quality hitch. He also knows that not all hitches are created equal. Some are better than others and some are just plain junk. That's why Hoover only recommends the best hitches to his customers. He wants them to be safe on the road and he wants their trailers to be safe as well. So if you're ever in need of a good hitch, make sure you give Hoover a call. He'll hook you up with the best one for your needs.

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