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Car hitches can be a great accessory to your vehicle. They provide the flexibility to increase your cargo space by letting you tow trailers, RVs, cargo carriers, boats, bikes, etc. They are becoming increasingly popular as now you don’t need to own a pickup truck or an SUV to be able to tow heavy loads. The frame hitches when installing on any car are strong enough to pull small trailers.
Because of their usefulness, we have made a list of the best Curt hitches that we will review later, but first, let’s look at what Curt is.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Curt Hitch
- OUR TOP PICK: CURT 45900 Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
- RUNNER-UP: CURT 48007 Pintle Hitch
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: CURT 45036 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
Table of Contents
Comparison of the Best Curt Hitches
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Who is Curt?
CURT is one of the five brands that make up the Curt Group of Companies, which are Curt, UWS, Retrac, Aries, and Luverne. They all focus on either towing products or truck accessories. Their products are manufactured solely in America with some warehouses in Canada as well. Curt is responsible for towing products, including the receiver, gooseneck, 5th wheel, and weight distribution hitches. Along with that, they also offer accessories that can be attached to these hitches like ball mounts and cargo carriers.
Curt Tamborino and Tammy Tamborino began their business in 1993 with trailer ball distribution and eventually expanded and added custom hitches of different colors made for different car models. They are now part of a well-oiled machine of companies and standards that always produce their best.
How Does Curt Compare to the Competition?
Curt is one of the first companies solely dedicated to towing products and has become one of the largest sellers in the United States. That, of course, comes with years of experience and quality. There are now many companies that make towing products, then why should we stick with Curt?
US Made
Each and every one of Curt’s products is made completely in the United States. The company has manufacturing plants in Wisconsin, Florida, and South Dakota. Being made in the US, the company can guarantee the quality of the products as well as the working environment, which seems to be a growing concern in many areas of the world.
ISO Certification
ISO stands for the International Standard Organization. They develop and maintain worldwide commercial and industrial standards. This organization was made to make sure that similar standards are followed worldwide. In 2015, Curt got its TS 16949 certificate from ISO. What does that mean? Well, this certificate shows a quality management system that continuously improves and aims at reducing waste and preventing defects in the automobile industry. Curt has made progress since its inception in 1994 by developing products of the highest standards and earning a reputation for its self in the industry.
Variety
If you are new to towing, then you might be thinking, what is too complicated? You just need something to attach to. But there are several different types depending on the car that will be towing and also depending on what needs to be towed. You need to check the weight it can carry and if it matches the weight carrying capacity of the car. After the technical aspects, people look at aesthetics. All cars don’t have the same color, and many people prefer to buy accessories for their cars that blend in with it.
Keeping these things in mind, Curt makes every possible type of hitches and accessories to go with them.
Review of the Best Curt Hitches
Now that you know about Curt and what to expect from its products, you need to choose the product that will suit your needs best. Let’s review our picks for the best Curt hitches.
Best Overall:
CURT 45900 Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It seems like a small device, but it is pretty heavy, which speaks of its built and durability. It has a high weight rating as well, which is more than enough for normal use. The installation is very simple, and the adjustable height and length settings offer versatility in use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The different height options mean you can tow anything and still keep the vehicles leveled. The shank also has adjustable attachment options. This model has the anti-rattle feature that reduces vibrations and rattling to make traveling quitter. The double coating and powder finish gives it good rust and weather-resistant design.
Who Will Use This Most
This hitch has two balls with 10000 and 14000 weight capacities. It is suitable for those that have more than one trailer of different sizes and want to switch between them at times. The many height options also increase the towing versatility as you can attach just about anything and still have it leveled.
Bottom Line
This is our best overall hitch because of the many options it gives for the rise and/or drop and trailer attachment. The weight capacity is more than enough, and it is very well built. Whether it is rain, snow, mud, or salt, this hitch can handle it without much damage.
Runner-up:
CURT 48007 Pintle Hitch
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This is a very heavy-duty hitch. The strength capacity of this pintle and ball combo is great. It is very secure and can even protect your car from rear collisions. The only complaint about it is that it sticks out from under the car a lot, making it difficult to park, but the overall build and towing capacity make up for it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The pintle and ball combination increases the towing options as you can couple it with a trailer coupler or a lunette ring. The locking arm covers the ball for security, and it also has a safety pin for securing the connection. They are made from solid forged steel and have high weight capacities.
Who Will Use This Most
Pintle hitches are used for heavy-duty towing like big trailers and in some construction settings. The combination of a ball and pintle means you get the best of both worlds. It can fit lunette rings that have a 2½-3 inches diameter, and for trailer ball, you need a 2-inch coupler.
Bottom Line
This combo product can serve in a variety of different situations, from the heavy stuff to low grade. Its design is still simple enough, and it’s easy to install. It is very well-built and durable. There is little chance of it breaking, and it also has the same black powder finish of all Curt products to keep from rusting and scratches.
Best for the Money:
CURT 45036 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The ball has a pretty sturdy build and high weight rating. It is very easy to install as it fits in the common 2-inch receiver. Some people have noticed the ball to rust fairly quickly, but it still handles weight like a pro. The main reason people buy it is for the high weight rating.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Curt’s standard ball mounts all come pre-torqued, meaning you don’t have to add the ball to the shank, making installation very easy. It has a good rating of 7,500 pounds with a tongue weight of 750 pounds. The hitch is coated with black powder for protection against rain, snow, and all kinds of weather conditions.
Who Will Use This Most
Since this hitch has a 2-inch shank, it can fit almost any standard hitch receiver. Ball mounts are capable of towing trailers and small RVs. It can be used with virtually any car or truck, but make sure that the car’s towing capacity matches that of the ball mount hitch.
Bottom Line
Some Curt hitches go over $300, but this small ball mount hitch is a simpler alternative. It does not have options like adjustable height and length; instead, it is just a single ball with a high weight capacity. With simple installation and sturdy build, you cannot go wrong with this one.
Best Curt Weight Distribution Hitch:
CURT 17063 MV Round Bar
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This is a very heavy and well build hitch. Its installation requires some work, but it is worth it. It has a good weight capacity and seems very sturdy and durable. They sway controller, and the high weight capacity makes it a favorite of campers and RV owners.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The MV weight distribution hitch is designed to keep the vehicles leveled while driving, and it also has grease fittings that make towing smoother and quieter. It is made from forged steel that gives it a strength of 14,000 pounds. The black powder finishing provides protection from things like scratches and dirt.
Who Will Use This Most
When pulling heavy-duty RVs or trailers, a weight distribution system is a must. It distributes the tongue weight better and makes traveling safer. Along with its features like no sway, no noise, and high load capacity, it is perfect for those that need to carry trailers. Also, it takes the standard 2 inches hitch receiver.
Bottom Line
This hitch is a bit more in the price category, but that is because it is not just a simple ball mount, but it is a complete weight distribution system with spring bars made of forged steel and chains for fastening. Curt’s weight distribution hitches are either standalone or have sway control. This model comes with sway control.
Best Curt 5th Wheel Hitch:
CURT 16120 Black A16 5th Wheel Hitch
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Fifth wheel hitches can be difficult to install, but this one has a removable head and comes with clear instructions that make the process easier. It doesn’t feel loose at all, and it is easy to get in and out of the truck bed. The price is budget-friendly, but it still has good enough quality.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Curt’s fifth wheel hitches have a lockable handle that sets itself to a couple of positions when the fifth wheel is uncoupled. The head has interlocking jaws that reduce noise and provide a wide opening for coupling. This model has an articulating head and poly-torsion inserts that remove shock loads as well as noise.
Who Will Use This Most
Generally, fifth wheel hitches require a pick-up truck to work. You install them on the bed of the truck, and they are used for heavier lifting. This hitch has a load capacity of 16000 pounds and a vertical load capacity of 4000 pounds. It can fit any truck model easily.
Bottom Line
If you have a pickup truck and are looking to tow trailers more quietly and stably, then this 5th wheel hitch is the way to go. The shock absorption and simple installation combined with a reasonable price all make for a good buy. The weight-bearing capacity is also good enough for trailers.
Best Curt Gooseneck Hitch:
CURT 60618 OEM Puck System Gooseneck Hitch Kit
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It is a simple and easy to install kit. It gives you everything you need to set the hitch up. The weight capacity is incredibly high, which is what you need from 5th wheel and gooseneck hitches. It also looks well build and durable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The kit includes everything from safety chains and a durable cover to rubber hole. The installation is as simple as locking the gooseneck in place in the OEM puck system hole. The anchors are made of forged steel with large openings to attach big trailers. It has a rust-resistant design black powder coating and chrome plating on the ball.
Who Will Use This Most
Given its 30000 pounds weight capacity, this hitch can be used to tow easily any trailer. This is used as an alternative to the bigger and more intrusive 5th wheel hitches. Goosenecks are smaller and can be removed whenever needed. They are used in the back bed of a pickup truck.
Bottom Line
If your truck has an OEM puck system, then this gooseneck will be as easy to set up as plugging in a switch. Despite its heavy-duty build and high weight capacity, it is very reasonably priced. Gooseneck hitches are a great option for any pickup truck owner as they let you keep the room to store cargo in the bed.
Best Curt Class 3 Trailer Hitch:
CURT 13333 Class 3 Trailer Hitch
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The hitch is very easy to install and has a good weight rating. It is very sturdy and dependable with no loose parts. Moreover, it fits very securely in place. The price is very reasonable as well, and you can attach a variety of towing options to it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The vehicle-specific design makes installation easier and also makes the hitch more secure. The hitch has a liquid Bonderite undercoating and a black powder finish to protect against rust and UV. This is a class III hitch and has a 2-inch receiver, which is the standard size. It can be used with weight distribution equipment as well.
Who Will Use This Most
This hitch has a towing capacity of 6000 pounds, and the weight distribution capacity is rated at 1000 pounds. Since the trailer hitches are designed to fit different vehicles, this one will also be suitable for select cars. It is made for Ram and Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500.
Bottom Line
Trailer hitches are the simpler options of all hitch types. They are rated lower in the weight capacity as well and are more suited for attachments such as cargo carriers and bike racks, etc. This hitch a good enough rating, though, and a solid build for durability.
Best Curt Adjustable Hitch:
CURT 45902 Adjustable Trailer Hitch Ball Mount
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It is a heavy ball mount that is well-made and durable. The weight capacity is very high and can handle a lot. The price is very affordable, and given the 2-inch shank size, it will go with any hitch receiver. The resistance protection is also durable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It has height adjustment and length adjustment options for easy installation and level towing. It’s very easy to install and has noise removal features. The ball used is dual, so it increases attachment options. The shank has a standard size to fit any hitch receiver. One ball is 2 inches with 10000 pounds weight capacity, and the bigger 2-5/16 inches ball has a 20000 pounds capacity.
Who Will Use This Most
If you have multiple trailers, then this adjustable ball mount is a good option. It is similar to the other adjustable ball mount we reviewed, but it is bigger and has more weight capacity, so it is more suitable for bigger trailers.
Bottom Line
Adjustable hitches come in handy for different types of towing. They keep everything leveled. Curt hitches are usually low priced and high quality. This is one of the dual ball mount hitches with larger size and weight capacity.
Best Curt Front Hitch:
CURT 31374 Front Hitch
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
As per recent buyer reports, the hitch is designed to fit the Dodge and Ram cars perfectly. It has good ground clearance, so it doesn’t get damaged easily when going up a slope. The build is good quality and reliable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This hitch has a 5000-pound gross trailer rating and a 500-pound tongue weight rating. It has a standard 2-inch receiver, so the attachment options are very versatile. Other accessory options include step, winch mount, skid plate, and tow hook. It also has a rust-resistant coating for durability.
Who Will Use This Most
A front hitch can be used for things other than normal towing like a snowplow. You can also attach cargo carriers to increase the carrying capacity of your vehicle. This model is made to fit the Ram 1500 and Dodge Ram 1500 cars.
Bottom Line
Front hitches are not very common but can be very helpful in adding the extra cargo space and some simple accessories. The price is very reasonable, and it is made from precision welded steel for durability and perfect fit to the vehicle.
How to Install a Curt Hitch
Installing a hitch can be either easy or very time-consuming, depending on the type of hitch and the car. It is vital to do it properly so that your cargo or whatever you are towing does not become loose. If it is a trailer, a loose connection can result in an accident. So let’s look at how you can install a hitch securely. Most of the tools needed will be given in the package with the hitch like bolts and fish wire.
Clean the threads of the nuts by using a lubricant (PB blaster) and a wire brush.
If there is a lot of rust that needs cleaning, use a thread tap and make sure it is perpendicular to the weld nut you are cleaning.
- If you are using a fish wire, insert the coiled end through the mounting hole and out the access hole in the frame of the car.
- Put the square hole placer over the coiled end and then into the access hole.
- Next thread the bolt on the coiled and place that in the access hole as well.
- Pull the fish wire from the opposite side until the bolt comes out, giving you an attachment point.
- Some hitches require the exhaust of the car to be lowered.
- Spray a lubricant on both sides of the isolator.
- Use a pry bar as a lever between the back of the isolator and the hanger stop and remove the isolator.
- In case there are not enough holes in the vehicle to install the hitch, you will need to drill some.
- Use the hitch as a reference and mark the areas where you will need the holes.
- It is suggested to use a cobalt drill with a coolant oiler, so the frame doesn’t overheat.
- Drill the hole, depending on the bolt size.
- Some vehicles require Facia trimming to install the hitch properly.
- Use masking tape to mark the areas that need to be cut.
- Than cut it using a razor knife, rotary tool, or aviator shears whatever you have available.
These are the things you need to do before you attach the hitch. For more tips, you can view the video given below.
Curt vs Reese Hitch - Comparison Overview
Curt and Reese are both well-known names in the winch industry, but both of them have their fair share of differences. Let’s see how the two compare with each other.
Company Profile
Since we have already discussed in detail about Curt, let’s dive right into Reese. Reese hitch is a family-owned company that has been active since 1957. They started by making trailer hitches and now also make different trailer parts and truck accessories. They have ISO 9001 – 2015 certification of quality management.
Warranty
Reese offers a full lifetime warranty with all their products. In case of any damage, you can get a replacement free of charge. Curt also offers lifetime warranty but on some of its products, including ball mounts and trailer hitches. Other products have warranties around 5 to 10 years. They are all limited warranties and become void if there has been any misuse of the product.
Products
Both Reese and Curt have similar product lines, including trailer, 5th wheel, gooseneck, and weight distribution hitches. Curt also offers separate hitches for RV and ATV, and it has all I to V class hitches. They both have adapters for 5th wheel and gooseneck hitches. They also offer electric equipment for towing. But Curt has some extra electric towing equipment like towing lights, electric testers, breakaway systems, RV harness, and components like relays and terminals.
Conclusion
Hitches are all about load bearings, so the most important thing is that they are sturdy and won’t break easily. Since cars are subjected to many different conditions throughout their life like rain, snow, and dirt, hitches also need to be resistant to them. Curt hitches follow standards to ensure all that. In the end, choosing which hitch you need depends on the load and type of car.
People Also Ask
Buying a winch is sometimes a difficult task and leaves users with a lot of questions. Read the following frequently asked questions for more information and to gain at least some clarity.
Where Are Curt Hitches Manufactured?
Curt hitches are manufactured completely in America. The manufacturing plants are located in Florida, Wisconsin, and South Dakota.
Are Curt Hitches Good?
Curt is the leading towing equipment provider in the US and has ISO certification for quality. It has a variety of products to choose from and has a reputation for making quality products.
