Best Towing Hitch Steps in 2022

Last update: December 24, 2022

Can I pull a trailer on my bumper?

You can pull a trailer on your bumper as long as the trailer is not too heavy and the hitch is properly installed and secured. You should always consult your owner’s manual before attempting to tow anything with your vehicle.

Can I pull a trailer with a bumper hitch?

Yes, you can pull a trailer with a bumper hitch. There are a few things to keep in mind, though. First, your vehicle's towing capacity will be limited by the strength of the bumper and hitch. Second, the trailer will be less stable than if it were attached to a frame hitch. Finally, you'll need to be extra careful when backing up, as the trailer can swing out from behind the vehicle.

How high should a hitch ball be off the ground?

A hitch ball should be high enough off the ground that it can clear any obstacles in the path of the trailer. It should also be high enough that the trailer can properly clear the ground when making turns.

How much drop do I need on my hitch?

There are a few things to consider when deciding how much drop you need on your hitch. First, you need to know the height of your trailer coupler. Second, you need to know the height of your vehicle's hitch receiver. Third, you need to know the distance between the ground and the bottom of your trailer's frame. Fourth, you need to know the distance between the ground and the top of your vehicle's hitch receiver. Fifth, you need to know the width of your trailer's tongue. The height of your trailer coupler should be 2-3 inches taller


Tyger Auto TG-HS8U81238 Hitch Armor Fits Vehicles with 2" Hitch Receiver | Textured Black | Hitch Step | Rear Bumper Guard Protector | with Pin Lock and Stabilizer Review:


Jeepers who keep a spare tire on the tailgate will frequently notice cars following too closely, maybe under the mistaken impression that the large mud tire is just a soft rubber cushion that will shield their own car from any significant damage. Ironically, there is some truth to this, at least to the detriment of some Jeeps, since it will be the first thing a vehicle (such as a pickup) plows into and entirely bypass the rear OEM or steel off-road bumper a foot farther back and down. By that time, the spot-welded tailgate will have sustained damage from the spare tire being driven against (or through), along with the fiberglass roof shell's D-pillars and the lower quarter panels of the back.With fair warning that my journey will continue happily along well after their radiator leaks over their damaged front end components and possibly no one to text on a broken cellphone, I found this solution to overcome those forgetful FB types after some recent encounters with texting fools on the interstate.I used a receiver hitch extender (5-inch) with a 4-inch drop/rise (e.g., Meyer FHK45054) to raise the receiver hitch up, rearward, and flush just beyond the 35" spare tire treads in order to protect the spare tire from the potential collision zone (Teraflex carrier used here). Thereto was attached the Tyger Hitch Armor, and "Protego! Even Voldemort wouldn't touch it, barring those (like mine) with a strong M/T tread, therefore this configuration should work for 32" and smaller types like stock. Overall, it comes down to personal preference and mental clarity while on asphalt. It will work either way.The Tyger's construction in this particular design, with or without the Meyer, will spread the force and crumple zones directly downhill and/or away from the center, as shown in the included photos. To keep the Tyger under control, spend your money on the best receiver locks (shown: Bolt Receiver Lock 7018448). Overall, superb workmanship that exudes a rough Jeep appearance and will function flawlessly with an OEM bumper or until the next update to aftermarket steel.Happy traveling to everyone.



AMP Research 75312-01A BedStep Retractable Bumper Step, Ford F-150 (2015 - 2019) Review:


The fact that a step to enter the bed of our trucks is not a standard feature still totally infuriates me. It's like having to pay more for the doors to open, in my opinion.A truck is designed with its bed as its focal point, but we have no way of getting into it.Anyway, I've had this style of bed step on three different trucks since it first became popular (pity my 14 doesn't fit my 18).Two things: if you think it will ruin the appearance of your truck, don't.It blends in well when folded up against the bumper. Don't even think about it.Second, you require a tool to help you pull yourself up. Because you can grab onto your bed rail, this is why Ford has the pole and why the design is good.For anyone who is getting older, all these other steps that mount to the hitch or anything that you step up in the middle without something to grip are dangerous. If there is nothing to grab onto, getting down puts a lot of strain on your hips.You won't regret buying this. The best truck modification you can do. Big guys have told me they don't think it will hold them, and every time it does. Without it, I'm lost!



AMP Research 75306-01A BedStep Retractable Bumper Step for 2009-2018 Ram 1500, 2010-2018 Ram 2500/3500 (Excludes Dual Exhaust & EcoDiesel Models) Review:


Initial installation takes 30 minutes.HEADACHES: The directions for the spacer had the wrong orientation.- Due to the incomplete list of required tools and the carelessness in the instruction, I am deducting one star. The guidelines for product development should have been rewritten to cover ALL tools and best practices after going through multiple dry runs.- It will be incredibly beneficial to have a 10mm Flexible Head Ratcheting Wrench for removing the bumper support bracket from the RAM 2500/3500. For a socket, tolerances are too tight. the TEKTON WRN57170- A lamp or flashlight is useful when aligning bolt holes when working underneath your car.- A 3" socket extension will come in handy when attaching the bedstep to the bumper with 15mm bolts because the holes are deeply recessed and you won't be able to spin the bolts with a standard 15mm socket unless you have one that is really deep. Any magnetism will help retain the bolt in the socket when performing an installation that is horizontally while upside down and lying sideways. Some people do not have an elevator.Install the bottom bolt first, as a tip. It's not a bad idea to use a T-handle 3/16 hex allen wrench as a makeshift spud wrench to keep the top bolt hole in place and help align it. The 3/16 hex allen wrench will be used subsequently to mount the step component. Use just the 15mm socket and the socket extension instead of the socket wrench itself to place the bolt into the socket and gently spin it with your fingers to check if it fits into the hole. Use the socket torque wrench to tighten it to specification until you can no longer turn it with your finger and it isn't stripping the bolt. You may use any socket arrangement with the tiny digital torque wrench adaptor that Harbor Freight sells.



TGL Hitch Step, Tow Hitch for 2 inch Receivers Review:


I concur with other assessments that inerting into the hitch results in more play. That is not an exception for my Toyota 4Runner. I counted at least three reviewers who had issues with the fit. While holding the step up so the gap is on the bottom, I utilized a method I've used for previous applications to quickly tighten the fit. I inserted the locking pin, installed the hitch, and then pounded the narrow edge of a wooden door shim into the gap as far as it will go. After that, apply pressure to the shim to break it off almost flush with the receiver's bottom edge. This will make the fit much tighter. Repeat the process if you need to switch out the hitch. A pack of door shims costs nothing and won't mar steel. With moist and dry weather, the shim insert will expand and contract slightly, but it will still be simple to remove. I rate the substantial, strong design with five stars because of this simple modification. In Minnesota, where I also reside, rust is to be anticipated and will give the object some personality.



Bully BBS-1102 Black Bull Series Heavy-Duty Rugged Towing Truck SUV Hitch Step Protector Universal Fit Hitch Mount for Trucks from Chevy (Chevrolet), Ford, Toyota, GMC, Dodge RAM, Jeep Review:


Before settling on this hitch cover, I must have searched through hundreds. Even for me, who stands over 6 feet tall, the bumper and bed on my Nissan Titan are quite high. Additionally, I *really* dislike getting my shins whacked by hitches. This provides a reasonable solution to both problems.I particularly appreciate how this one is rounded since it makes it very difficult to approach it from the side and break your ankle. You probably already deserve it for failing to notice the truck in front of you if you approach it directly from the back and trip over your ankle.This makes sense. really strong I feel rather certain that I could put my jack under this and jack up the truck with it, though I wouldn't try it because it is plainly not the intended use. The enormous tubing has an industrial vibe to it. It's wonderful for making it easier to climb into the truck bed because it doesn't move when you walk (or leap) on it.The ONLY reason I'm deducting a star (if I could, it would be a half star) is that its ends are capped with soft plastic or hard rubber. They are kept on in a somewhat peculiar fashion, and I see that they constantly trying to pull themselves free of the ends. Although they cannot be removed, I periodically have to reposition them. It resembles someone building a shopping cart out of steel I-beams and adding a flimsy handle to it.Although the ends, which face under the bumper and typically appear fine, are not truly visible. I believe it to be a fantastic purchase for the money, and I'm extremely satisfied with it.



Pilot/Bully CR600 Bully Hitch Step Trucks Review:


It arrived in good condition and without any flaws. If not for the issue that the anti-rattle wedge was too thick to fit my 2" receiver, I would have given 5 ratings. The receiver would accept less than 1/8" of material. As an alternative, I put 2" dark gray duct tape inside the first hole where it fits into the receiver. I used a little pocket knife to cut the holes after adding two layers to the end. It looks fantastic, is installed absolutely horizontal to the vehicle, and is mounted straight. Even my wife enjoys it. When she washes our 2015 Ford Escape, she may stand up, protecting the bumper (with sensors). The performance of the side approach or backup sensors is unaffected. The end caps can come off, as some people have mentioned, so I was going to glue them on. However, I discovered that even if they are loose around the edges, they are anchored to some sort of bracket in the middle, so I decided to leave them alone. I waxed it with Turtle Wax Ice, which doesn't turn white on black plastic or rubber, for added protection, including the rubber step. As some have noted, this should help prevent the step from going white over time.It is less expensive than the plastic substitute brand, more sturdy (it doesn't bend when you stand on it), and has no sharp edges that you could cut your shin or knee on. And it looks fantastic!



Go Rhino 360T Textured Black Powder Coat Finish Universal Hitch Step for 2" Recievers Review:


purchased this in 2015. I eventually dropped the end caps on the highway, but that's okay because I prefer the pvc pipe tops. Originals can be siliconed in, which is a simple remedy. Be a man and don't be scared to improve things, if you can.This past weekend on the interstate, a guy in a platinum Ford F-150 rear-ended and slammed me in the back. My truck has not been harmed. GoRhino came to the rescue. The automobile that struck the F-150 was cartoonishly destroyed and ruined. Only the front and back bumpers of the F-150 were damaged. When compared to the other guy's crushed tomato can, the F150 was tough as nails! I was fortunate to only lose one step, but I immediately ordered another. I completed the extra step and received the updated model.Don't drive nekked; use one of these to safeguard your six. I'm so glad I made the decision to return and post a review almost 4 years later.see photos



Juegoal Rear Bumper Protector, Vehicles Bumper Guard Hitch Step with Pin Lock and Stabilizer for Car and SUV Review:


This is the item's lowest price, and at this cost, it represents good value. It is made of a durable plastic. I'm using it as a bumper protector on my Crosstrek and anticipate that if it is hit with any force, it will break. If you fully insert it into one of the numerous holes, it will sustain a 200 pound human. It sways when you stand on it if you pull it out and utilise one of the back holes. Although it doesn't seem to give way under the weight, it is unsteady.



TAC Aluminum Hitch Step Universal Fit 2" Rear Hitch Receivers with 6" Drop Review:


This is something I've had for a while and really enjoy. Considering that my step bumper is 20" from the ground and I use it on my service utility van, I can't see going without it. My knees wouldn't last without it at all. The fact that it is lightweight and made of aluminum is fantastic. But I discovered that I can't keep it in the receiver hitch for an extended period of time since it will touch the asphalt as I back out of most driveways. I have an overhang of three to four feet from the back wheels. On regular pickups, there probably won't be a problem. Again, though, it's lightweight, so when I'm finished, I simply take it off and store it in the back.



Bully CR-605L Chrome Series Heavy-Duty Truck SUV LED Hitch Step Review:


Three years ago, I bought this for my 2010 Ford Escape because it improved access to the top baggage rack, the chrome complemented other chrome aftermarket items, and I liked the LED.Throughout the duration of this device, I never experienced pain peeling or faulty led lights. The rubber caps are ill-fitting, and I did observe them beginning to separate from the ends over the previous winter. You had to look quite closely to see it because it didn't seem to add to the utility of the product. I give it one star.A few of weeks ago, a 1500 Chevy Cheyenne truck and I collided in the back. The aluminum folded around my hitch as a result of the impact, which was mostly absorbed by this tiny step. I had to bend my back out and yank it off with a pry bar so I could replace it.Replacement? Why? Because I credit this tiny device with significantly lowering the amount of damage that is dealt to my Escape. Even the body shop workers were surprised by the very minor damage to my bumper compared to the truck that struck me. Even with hefty DealerShip costs, the total cost of the damage to my truck was $1054 even though my Hitch remained unharmed.It could be improved slightly, for example, by using thicker aluminum, but this isn't auto-armor; rather, it's a great convenience and an additional brake light. I can't wait to replace me.


How much weight can a 2-inch ball pull?

A 2-inch ball can pull up to 10 pounds.

Is it better to have a trailer hitch too high or too low?

There's no definitive answer to this question since it depends on what type of vehicle and trailer you're using, as well as your personal preferences. In general, however, it's generally better to have the trailer hitch too high rather than too low. This is because a high trailer hitch provides more clearance between the trailer and the ground, which can help prevent the trailer from scraping when going over bumps or obstacles. Additionally, a high trailer hitch can also make it easier to back up the trailer since you'll have a better view of the trailer's rear end.

What are hitch steps?

A hitch step is a device that attaches to the trailer hitch of a vehicle and provides a step to make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle.

What are the 4 types of hitches?

There are four types of hitches: the ball hitch, the bumper hitch, the pintle hitch, and the fifth wheel hitch. The ball hitch is the most common and is used to tow trailers. The bumper hitch is used to tow smaller trailers and is mounted on the bumper of the vehicle. The pintle hitch is used to tow larger trailers and is mounted on the frame of the vehicle. The fifth wheel hitch is used to tow the largest trailers and is mounted on the bed of the vehicle.

What are the parts of a towing hitch?

There are four parts to a towing hitch: the ball mount, the ball, the hitch receiver, and the safety chains. The ball mount is the part of the hitch that attaches to the vehicle. The ball is the part of the hitch that the trailer attaches to. The hitch receiver is the part of the hitch that the ball mount attaches to. The safety chains are the chains that connect the trailer to the vehicle in case the trailer comes detached from the hitch.

What are the three basic types of trailer hitches?

There are three basic types of trailer hitches: ball mount, weight-distributing, and gooseneck. Ball mount hitches are the most common and are used to tow trailers with a coupler that attaches to a ball mounted on the hitch. Weight-distributing hitches are used to tow heavier trailers and distribute the weight evenly between the hitch and the trailer. Gooseneck hitches are used to tow trailers with a coupler that attaches to a ball mounted in the bed of a pickup truck.