Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)First of all, let me say that there is NO DRILLING REQUIRED with this hitch. It uses pre-existing bolt holes where the tow rings are mounted; a very important feature I considered when scouting receiver hitches.
I installed this hitch receiver on my 2003 Subaru Forester X. I purchased the hitch from Amazon along with the Valley Tow 30112 T-Connector that plugs right in to my vehicle's existing wiring harness (no soldering or wire-stripping required, just "plug and play"). It arrived in a timely manner. Shipping was tracked well through Fed-Ex; which was automatic, even with "super-saver shipping".
The product itself and the install are relatively straight forward, as you might expect (since there is really nothing very technical about a trailer hitch). I went to Valley Towing's website and printed the PDF of the install instructions and kept them in the back of my car in an envelope until the receiver, etc arrived (just in case the install instructions were damaged in transit). I received the hitch with the hardware and instructions attached to it (the hardware and instructions were wrapped with cardboard and tape on the exterior of the receiver hitch). Be sure to read the instructions well, because there are no pictures in said instructions. It always helps me to prepare myself mentally to be patient when working with metal (of this strength especially). I had loosely attached one side of the hitch and could not get the other side to line up perfectly (it was off about 1/16 of an inch). I tried putting a wooden 2x4 against the receiver and giving it a couple of strikes with a framing hammer, but it wouldn't budge. So, I would suggest saving yourself some frustration and do as I did: prepare to use a "come-along" to influence such minute movement. Just be sure you have your "come-along" set low enough to not damage your bumper cover or trim but high enough to be able to tighten the bolts without added resistance. It took me (by myself and not using jack-stands or ramps) about 2 hours from the time I had my tools gathered until the time my vehicle was roadworthy with the hitch ready to use.
This is a quality, very low-profile receiver. You can scarcely tell that it is on the vehicle; which is a plus. This particular receiver hitch is rated at a higher capacity than competing brands I happened to find in my pre-purchase research. I wouldn't suggest using the maximum capacity of 3500 lbs, obviously, b/c Subaru suggests 2000 and 2400lbs towing capacity for the automatic and manual transmissions, respectively. Sure I can't use the receiver hitch to its full potential without risking the integrity of my transmission, but wouldn't you want the product that is higher rated when your vehicle, whatever you might be towing and possibly your family's safety are on the line? This is a solid receiver hitch and is a valuable asset if you plan on utilizing your vehicle to its full potential. I am an avid outdoorsman, and needed something strong that would last. I believe that I found it. As a matter of fact in the strength department, I used it to pull my friend's vehicle from the snow, ice and mud (I can see the headlines now: "Chevrolet Tahoe rescued from peril by Subaru Forester"). That took place one week to the day after I installed this hitch receiver; which was last Saturday, 01/15/11 (talk about good timing). No damage to the either vehicle or parts thereof. As to it lasting, I am sure it will, but only time will tell.
Conclusion: In my humble opinion, this is the best hitch on the market for my vehicle specs, personal safety standards and uses. Do your research and I am sure you will find the best for yours.
Take care and good luck.
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