If you're renting a trailer from Ride On Rentals in Delta, you need to know your hitch class before you book. A Class 3 hitch is the most common setup for trucks and SUVs, and it's what most of our trailers need. Here's how to check yours and what it means for your rental, plain and simple.
What is a Class 3 hitch, really?
A Class 3 hitch is the receiver tube bolted under the back of your truck or SUV. It's the square opening where you slide in a ball mount. Class 3 is the middle tier of hitch classes, built for heavier loads than a Class 1 or 2, but not as heavy as a Class 4 or 5. For most people towing a car hauler, an enclosed cargo trailer, or a dump trailer, a Class 3 is exactly what you need.
The hitch class is usually stamped right on the receiver tube, often on the underside. Look for a label or a stamped number that says Class 3, Class 4, or something like that. If you can't find it, check your owner's manual or look up your vehicle model online. It's worth the five minutes to know before you call us, because it tells us whether your rig can handle the trailer you want.
How do I find my hitch ball size?
The ball size is the diameter of the metal ball that connects to your trailer coupler. Most Class 3 hitches use a 2-inch ball, but some smaller trailers use 1-7/8 inches. You can measure the ball with a tape measure across the top, or check the ball mount itself for a stamped size. If you're unsure, just look at the coupler on the trailer you want to rent.
When you call Ride On Rentals, tell us your ball size and we'll confirm it matches the trailer. If you don't have a ball at all, or the wrong size, we can point you in the right direction. You might need to pick up a new ball mount or just swap the ball, which is a simple job with a wrench.
What if my vehicle doesn't have a Class 3 hitch?
If your truck or SUV has a Class 1 or 2 hitch, that's usually for lighter loads like a small utility trailer or bike rack. It won't handle the weight of an enclosed cargo trailer or a dump trailer full of gravel. You've got a few options. You could have a Class 3 hitch installed by a shop, which takes a couple of hours. Or you could rent a smaller trailer that fits your hitch, if we have one that matches.
The other thing to check is your vehicle's towing capacity. That's different from the hitch class. Your owner's manual will tell you the max weight your vehicle can pull. The hitch class tells you what the hitch itself can handle. Both matter, so check both before you book. When you call us, tell us what you're hauling and what you drive, and we'll help you sort it out.
What about wiring and brake controllers?
Your trailer needs to connect to your vehicle's electrical system for lights and brakes. Most Class 3 hitches have a 4-pin or 7-pin connector nearby. A 4-pin handles basic lights like turn signals and brake lights. A 7-pin adds electric brake control and a power line for trailer accessories. Our trailers use one or the other, so you'll need the right plug on your vehicle.
If you don't have the right connector, you can buy an adapter or have a wiring harness installed. For heavier trailers with brakes, you'll also need a brake controller inside your cab. That's a separate device that lets you apply the trailer brakes manually. It's not complicated, but it needs to be set up before you pick up the trailer. Tell us your setup when you book and we'll confirm everything works.
How does this work when I rent from Delta?
Renting a trailer in Delta means you'll drive over the bridges or through the tunnel to get here. The good news is that a Class 3 hitch on a standard truck or SUV handles our trailers fine for that kind of driving. Tight city parking in Vancouver or Richmond is more about the trailer length than the hitch, so keep that in mind for your route.
When you book, you tell us the trailer type, your dates, and what you're hauling. We confirm your hitch class and ball size, and we make sure the wiring matches. Then you come to Delta, hook up, and go. It's straightforward. If you're unsure about any of it, just ask when you call. That's what we're here for.
What's the easiest way to check before I call?
Go out to your vehicle and look at the receiver tube. Find the class rating, measure your ball, and check your connector type. Write those down. Then look up your towing capacity in the manual if you don't know it. That's all the info you need. It takes about ten minutes total.
If you can't find the class rating or you're not sure about the ball size, don't guess. Just call us and describe what you see. We've helped plenty of people figure this out over the phone. Better to ask now than to show up with the wrong setup and have to turn around.
Quick questions
Can I rent a trailer with a Class 2 hitch?
Probably not for our bigger trailers. A Class 2 hitch is built for lighter loads, so it won't safely handle an enclosed cargo trailer, dump trailer, or car hauler. You'd need a Class 3 or higher. Check your hitch class and call us to confirm what works.
How do I know if my ball is 2 inches or 1-7/8 inches?
Measure the diameter across the top of the ball with a tape measure. A 2-inch ball is the standard for Class 3 hitches. If you don't have a tape measure handy, look for a size stamped on the ball mount. When in doubt, tell us what you have and we'll match it.
Do I need a brake controller for a rental trailer?
It depends on the trailer. Heavier trailers like dump trailers and car haulers often have electric brakes that need a controller. Lighter enclosed trailers might not. When you book, tell us what you're towing and we'll let you know if you need one.
What if my truck has a 7-pin plug but the trailer uses 4-pin?
You can use an adapter that steps down from 7-pin to 4-pin. Those are cheap and available at most auto parts stores. If it's the other way around, you might need a wiring harness installed. We'll tell you what your trailer needs when you book.
Call Ride On Rentals at (604) 767-7977 to check your hitch setup and find the right trailer for your job. We'll confirm everything before you drive out to Delta.