Trailer hitches fall into categories or classes, which determine how much gross trailer weight the hitch is rated to carry. Hitch classes, which range from I to V, also specify the tongue weight of the hitch.
Class V hitches are some of the largest hitches made. They are rated for up to 10,000 lbs. of gross trailer weight. They have a tongue weight rating of a whopping 1,200 lbs. Class V hitches are normally weight-distributing hitches and can accommodate up to a 2.5-inch receiver.
Class V hitches are designed to pull large loads such as a car or horse trailer. Other loads might include a large boat or camper. These hitches fit full-size trucks and sport utility vehicles. You can install them on full-size cars if the vehicle has the capability of pulling the load.
"Tongue weight rating" refers to the downward force that the hitch's engineering allows it to handle. Exceeding the maximum tongue weight can lead to trailer sway.
