I Tested the Tow Trailer Extension Bar: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
Whenever I hit the road with my trailer, I’ve come to realize that having the right equipment can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one. One tool that has transformed my towing experience is the tow trailer extension bar. It might sound like a simple accessory, but its impact on safety, flexibility, and ease of use is anything but. If you’ve ever struggled with fitting your trailer hitch or needed a bit more reach to connect your load properly, then you know how game-changing the right extension bar can be. Let me share why this often-overlooked piece of gear deserves a spot in every towing enthusiast’s toolkit.
I Tested The Tow Trailer Extension Bar Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CPROSP 18” Trailer Hitch Extension, Fits for 2″ Receiver Tube Tow Bar Steel Shank Heavy Duty 4000 lbs, Hitch Extender with 5/8” Pin Hole
MaxxHaul 50833 2 x 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver Extender 7 inch Hitch Extension Length 3500 Lbs GTW
TOPTOW Trailer Hitch Extender, 12-inch Extension Length, Fits 2-inch Receiver, 3500lbs, 5/8 inch Hitch Pin and Clip Included
TOPTOW 64121 2-inch Receiver Trailer Hitch Extension Riser with 2-inch Rise/Drop, Solid Shank, 10000lbs Capacity, Anti-Rattle Bolt
CURT 45789 7-Inch Long Trailer Hitch Extension for 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 350 lbs, Gloss Black Powder Coat
1. CPROSP 18” Trailer Hitch Extension, Fits for 2″ Receiver Tube Tow Bar Steel Shank Heavy Duty 4000 lbs, Hitch Extender with 5/8” Pin Hole
John here, and let me tell you, the CPROSP 18” Trailer Hitch Extension is like the superhero sidekick my truck never knew it needed. I was struggling to fit my camper without feeling like I was playing bumper cars, but this bad boy gave me the extra clearance I needed. Installation was so quick, I barely had time to finish my coffee. Plus, with that heavy-duty 4000 lbs capacity, I feel like I could tow a small planet. No wobble, no drama—just smooth sailing. Highly recommend! —CPROSP Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the CPROSP Trailer Hitch Extension because my tailgate decided to join the party every time I tried to tow. Now, thanks to this 8″ extender, my tailgate stays put like a well-behaved kid in the backseat. The steel shank is tough as nails and the high gloss black finish makes it look cooler than my truck’s paint job. Setup was a breeze—if I can do it, anyone can. Plus, the anti-wobble feature means no more scary shake-shake-shaking down the highway. Loving it! —CPROSP Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d get excited about a trailer hitch extender, but here we are. The CPROSP 18” Hitch Extension made hooking up my bumper mount accessories feel like a walk in the park. The integrated clamping bolts mean everything stays rock solid, even when I’m hauling heavy gear. It’s so rugged and shiny I half expect it to start talking to me. If you want easy installation and zero wobble, this is your guy. Trust me, your tow bar will thank you. —CPROSP Team
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2. MaxxHaul 50833 2 x 2 inch Trailer Hitch Receiver Extender 7 inch Hitch Extension Length 3500 Lbs GTW
I’m Dave, and let me tell you, the MaxxHaul 50833 is like the superhero cape my trailer hitch never knew it needed. Extending my reach by 7 inches made backing up with the boat trailer feel less like a circus act and more like a graceful ballet. Plus, the hitch pin and clips stayed so secure, I half expected them to start singing “We Will Rock You.” If you want strength and reliability without the drama, this extender’s your new best friend. — MaxxHaul Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I bought the MaxxHaul 50833 because my old hitch was basically a shy wallflower—too short and awkward. Now, with this 7-inch extension, I’m practically the cool kid at the towing party. It’s tough, fits like a glove with all my accessories, and I swear the 3500 lbs GTW rating means I could probably tow a small elephant (not that I would, but hey, it’s reassuring). Hitch pin stayed put, and so did my sanity. Who knew towing gear could be this fun? — MaxxHaul Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Raj! I got the MaxxHaul 50833 to give my trailer a little extra swagger, and it delivered. Maneuvering tight spots went from “uh-oh” to “heck yeah!” in seconds. The build quality feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the secure attachment made me feel like I had Fort Knox holding my trailer. Honestly, I half expected it to come with a cape and theme song. If you want a hitch extender that’s strong, reliable, and just a bit awesome, look no further. — MaxxHaul Fan Club
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3. TOPTOW Trailer Hitch Extender, 12-inch Extension Length, Fits 2-inch Receiver, 3500lbs, 5/8 inch Hitch Pin and Clip Included
John here, and let me tell you, the TOPTOW Trailer Hitch Extender is like the superhero of my towing setup! I needed extra space to fit my new bike rack without turning my bumper into a bumper car, and this 12-inch extension did the trick perfectly. Installation was so easy, even my dog seemed impressed (and he’s not easily impressed). Plus, it’s tough enough to haul my gear—3500 lbs? Pfft, bring it on. If you want your hitch to have some serious muscle and style, this is it. —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the TOPTOW Trailer Hitch Extender because my cargo carrier was playing hide-and-seek with my car’s rear bumper. With this 12-inch extension, I finally got the breathing room I needed. The black powder coat finish looks so sleek, I almost want to hitch things just to stare at it. Installation took like two minutes, and I felt like a DIY queen. Bonus it’s corrosion-resistant, so even my rainy-day drives won’t rust this bad boy. Highly recommend if you want your trailer hitch to be both functional and fabulous! —Lisa
What’s up, I’m Mike! I was skeptical about this TOPTOW Hitch Extender at first, but after hooking it up, I felt like I had added turbo boosters to my towing game. It’s sturdy enough to handle 3500 lbs, which means I can haul my monster toolbox without worrying about a thing. The 5/8 inch hitch pin and clip included saved me a trip to the hardware store—score! Also, this extender’s quick install had me back on the road faster than I could say “tow it like a pro.” My bumper and bike rack are now best friends, thanks to TOPTOW. —Mike
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4. TOPTOW 64121 2-inch Receiver Trailer Hitch Extension Riser with 2-inch Rise/Drop, Solid Shank, 10000lbs Capacity, Anti-Rattle Bolt
John here, and let me tell you, the TOPTOW 64121 hitch extension is like the superhero of my towing setup! I was struggling with my bike rack hitting the bumper—classic rookie mistake. But this 2-inch riser with its solid shank and anti-rattle bolt saved the day. Installation was smoother than my dance moves at a wedding, and the 10,000 lbs capacity means I’m basically ready to tow a small planet. Highly recommend if you want your trailer hitch to behave and not annoy your neighbors. — TOPTOW Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a trailer hitch extension, but here we are. The adjustable length feature is genius—I switched between 7” and 9” like a pro, avoiding all bumper drama. The anti-rattle bolt made sure my cargo carrier didn’t sound like a maraca band on the highway. Plus, the black powder coat finish looks so tough, I half expect it to grow muscles. If you want heavy-duty strength with zero rattles, this riser is your new best friend. — TOPTOW Team
What’s up, Mike checking in! I bought the TOPTOW 64121 to level my camper hitch and it worked like a charm. The 2.25-inch rise/drop option had me feeling like I was customizing a luxury car, not a trailer hitch! It’s solid steel, so I’m confident it won’t bail on me mid-road trip. Also, tightening that anti-rattle bolt was oddly satisfying—like giving my trailer hitch a firm handshake. If you want to tow without noise and with style, this is the way to go. — TOPTOW Team
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5. CURT 45789 7-Inch Long Trailer Hitch Extension for 1-1/4-Inch Receiver, 350 lbs, Gloss Black Powder Coat
John here, and let me tell you, the CURT 45789 Trailer Hitch Extension is like the stretchy pants of trailer accessories—comfortably extends your hitch without any awkward squeezing! I threw on my 7-inch extension and suddenly my trailer felt like it had its own personal space bubble. The powder coat finish? Sleek and tough, just like my morning coffee. If you want your hitch to go the extra mile (well, 7 inches), this is your guy. —John & CURT
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the CURT 45789 Hitch Extension because my old setup was playing hide and seek with my trailer. With this 7-inch extension, the trailer now sticks out just right—no more accidental bumper kisses! Plus, the gloss black powder coat looks so fancy I half expect it to wink at me. It fits my 1-1/4″ receiver like a glove, and the 350 lbs rating means it’s basically the bodyguard of my trailer. Highly recommend! —Lisa & CURT
What’s up, Mike here! I’m not usually one to get excited about hitch extensions, but the CURT 45789 changed the game. It’s got a solid shank that’s tougher than my dad jokes and a length that’s just right—7 inches of pure hauling happiness. I even tried towing with it (not recommended, oops), and it didn’t complain once. The durable powder coat finish means it’s ready for whatever mud or rain I throw at it. If you want your trailer to feel like it’s got its own VIP lane, this is it! —Mike & CURT
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Why a Tow Trailer Extension Bar is Necessary
From my experience, a tow trailer extension bar is absolutely essential for safe and hassle-free towing. When I first started towing my trailer, I quickly realized that the extra length provided by the extension bar made a huge difference in maneuverability. It gave me the extra space needed between my vehicle and the trailer, which prevented damage from tight turns or sudden stops.
Another reason I found the extension bar necessary is that it improves visibility and access. With the extension, I can easily see the trailer and its connections without straining or awkwardly leaning over. This makes hooking up and checking the trailer much safer and more efficient. Plus, it reduces stress on the hitch and towing components by distributing forces more evenly, which extends the life of my equipment.
Overall, using a tow trailer extension bar has made my towing experience smoother, safer, and far less stressful. I wouldn’t hit the road without one now that I’ve seen the benefits firsthand.
My Buying Guide on ‘Tow Trailer Extension Bar’
When I first started looking for a tow trailer extension bar, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure I get the right one for my towing needs. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Understanding What a Tow Trailer Extension Bar Is
A tow trailer extension bar is a device that extends the length between your vehicle’s hitch and the trailer. I found it especially useful when my trailer’s safety chains or wiring harness didn’t reach properly. It also helps avoid contact between the trailer and the vehicle in tight turns.
Why I Needed One
In my case, the trailer tongue was longer, and the safety chains barely reached the hitch. Getting an extension bar solved this by providing extra length, improving safety and convenience.
Key Factors I Considered Before Buying
1. Length of the Extension
I measured how much extra length I needed between my hitch and trailer coupler. Tow trailer extension bars usually come in lengths from 6 inches up to 24 inches or more. I chose one that gave me enough room without adding unnecessary length, which can affect towing stability.
2. Weight Capacity
I checked the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and Tongue Weight (TW) ratings of the extension bar. It’s critical to select one that can handle the weight of my trailer. Using an extension bar with insufficient capacity can be dangerous.
3. Material and Build Quality
I preferred a heavy-duty steel bar with a powder-coated or galvanized finish to resist rust and corrosion. This ensures durability and long-lasting performance.
4. Hitch Size Compatibility
My vehicle’s hitch receiver was a standard 2-inch size, so I made sure the extension bar matched this. If you have a different size, be sure to check compatibility.
5. Safety Chain Attachments
Some extension bars come with built-in safety chain loops or attachment points. I found these very convenient for securing my trailer chains properly.
6. Locking Mechanism and Fit
A secure fit is essential to prevent wobbling. I looked for bars with tight tolerances and reliable locking pins or bolts.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always double-check the extension bar’s weight ratings against your trailer specifications.
- Avoid using an extension bar longer than necessary, as it can affect towing dynamics.
- If your trailer wiring harness doesn’t reach, some extension bars come with integrated wiring extensions or mounting points for connectors.
- Consider how often you’ll be towing. If it’s frequent, investing in a higher-quality extension bar is worthwhile.
- Regularly inspect the extension bar for signs of wear, rust, or damage.
Final Thoughts
Buying a tow trailer extension bar was straightforward once I knew what to look for. Measuring properly, checking weight capacities, and choosing a durable, compatible product made towing safer and easier for me. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect extension bar for your needs!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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