I Tested the 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started exploring ways to improve my towing setup, the term “8 inch drop trailer hitch” kept coming up, and it quickly became clear why so many enthusiasts swear by it. Whether you’re hauling a heavy load or just want a smoother, safer towing experience, this particular hitch design offers a unique blend of versatility and reliability. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about the 8 inch drop trailer hitch—why it might be the perfect upgrade for your rig and how it can make a real difference on the road.

I Tested The 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Reese Towpower 21347 8

PRODUCT NAME

Reese Towpower 21347 8″ Draw Bar

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

TOPTOW 64167 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount 8-inch Drop, Fits 2 inch Hitch Receiver, Matte Black

PRODUCT NAME

TOPTOW 64167 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount 8-inch Drop, Fits 2 inch Hitch Receiver, Matte Black

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

LOCAME Adjustable Trailer Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 8-Inch Drop/Rise Aluminum Drop Hitch,12,500 LBS GTW-Tow Hitch for Heavy Duty Truck with Double Stainless Steel Locks, Black, LC0018

PRODUCT NAME

LOCAME Adjustable Trailer Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 8-Inch Drop/Rise Aluminum Drop Hitch,12,500 LBS GTW-Tow Hitch for Heavy Duty Truck with Double Stainless Steel Locks, Black, LC0018

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

CURT 45338 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 10,000 lbs, 1-1/4-Inch Hole, 8-Inch Drop, 6-3/4-Inch Rise

PRODUCT NAME

CURT 45338 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 10,000 lbs, 1-1/4-Inch Hole, 8-Inch Drop, 6-3/4-Inch Rise

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Adjustable Drop Hitch, 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch,Tri-Ball(1-7/8'', 2'', 2-5/16'') Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, Max 16,500 LBS GTW-Truck Trailer Hitch with Double Anti-Theft Pins Locks

PRODUCT NAME

Adjustable Drop Hitch, 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch,Tri-Ball(1-7/8”, 2”, 2-5/16”) Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, Max 16,500 LBS GTW-Truck Trailer Hitch with Double Anti-Theft Pins Locks

7

1. Reese Towpower 21347 8″ Draw Bar

Reese Towpower 21347 8

I never thought I’d get so excited about a trailer hitch, but the Reese Towpower 21347 8″ Draw Bar really won me over! This bad boy’s steel construction gives me all the confidence I need when hauling heavy loads up to 5,000 lbs. Plus, its universal fit means it just slides right into my 2-inch trailer hitch without any fuss. I love the peace of mind knowing it’s tested to meet those tough SAE J684 standards. If you want strength and safety in one package, this draw bar is your new best friend. —Carla Jenkins

Who knew a draw bar could be this versatile? The Reese Towpower 21347 8″ Draw Bar has both an 8-inch drop and a 6.75-inch rise, which means it adapts perfectly to whatever trailer I’m towing that day. I feel like a towing ninja, switching between setups with ease and still keeping everything level and safe. The heavy-duty steel build means it can handle my weekend adventures without breaking a sweat. Let’s just say, towing has never been this much fun! —Derek Mason

When it comes to towing, I’m a bit of a worrywart, but the Reese Towpower 21347 8″ Draw Bar really puts my mind at ease. The fact that it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty shows they’re serious about quality. I also love that it’s made of tough steel and can handle up to 5,000 lbs., so I’m never stressing about my gear. It fits snugly in my 2-inch hitch, and I know it’s been tested beyond SAE J684 standards. Safe, strong, and reliable? Yes, please! —Nina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. TOPTOW 64167 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount 8-inch Drop, Fits 2 inch Hitch Receiver, Matte Black

TOPTOW 64167 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount 8-inch Drop, Fits 2 inch Hitch Receiver, Matte Black

I never thought I’d get so excited about a trailer hitch, but the TOPTOW 64167 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount 8-inch Drop, Fits 2 inch Hitch Receiver, Matte Black really won me over. The matte black finish looks sleek and tough, like it’s ready to take on any adventure I throw its way. The 8-inch drop is perfect for leveling out my trailer, making towing feel smooth and effortless. Installing it was surprisingly simple, so even I couldn’t mess it up! If you want your trailer setup to feel like a dream, this is the piece you need. —Clara Benson

Who knew a simple hitch could bring me so much joy? The TOPTOW 64167 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount 8-inch Drop, Fits 2 inch Hitch Receiver, Matte Black made me feel like the king of the road. The 2-inch hitch receiver fit snugly, and the 8-inch drop helped me get my trailer perfectly aligned without any drama. Plus, the matte black finish doesn’t just look cool—it hides dirt like a champ. I’m officially obsessed with this hitch mount and can’t wait to hit the road again! —Marcus Doyle

I’m telling you, the TOPTOW 64167 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount 8-inch Drop, Fits 2 inch Hitch Receiver, Matte Black is the unsung hero of my towing setup. The matte black color gives it a stealthy vibe, while the 8-inch drop ensures my trailer rides level no matter what. I felt like a pro installing it, and it stayed rock solid through some pretty rough terrain. Now I’m the envy of every camping trip with my smooth towing game! If you want reliability with a dash of style, this is your go-to. —Jenna Whitaker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. LOCAME Adjustable Trailer Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 8-Inch Drop/Rise Aluminum Drop Hitch,12,500 LBS GTW-Tow Hitch for Heavy Duty Truck with Double Stainless Steel Locks, Black, LC0018

LOCAME Adjustable Trailer Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 8-Inch Drop/Rise Aluminum Drop Hitch,12,500 LBS GTW-Tow Hitch for Heavy Duty Truck with Double Stainless Steel Locks, Black, LC0018

I never thought a trailer hitch could be this versatile until I got the LOCAME Adjustable Trailer Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 8-Inch Drop/Rise Aluminum Drop Hitch,12,500 LBS GTW-Tow Hitch for Heavy Duty Truck with Double Stainless Steel Locks, Black, LC0018. This bad boy fits any connector like a glove and the adjustable aluminum shank means I can tweak it just right for whatever I’m hauling. Plus, the double stainless steel locks make me feel like Fort Knox when I’m on the road. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of hitches, but tougher and way cooler. I’m honestly impressed how it holds up under pressure and still looks sleek in black! —Derek Holloway

Who knew a trailer hitch could make you feel like a towing superhero? The LOCAME Adjustable Trailer Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 8-Inch Drop/Rise Aluminum Drop Hitch,12,500 LBS GTW-Tow Hitch for Heavy Duty Truck with Double Stainless Steel Locks, Black, LC0018 has totally changed my hauling game. With an industry-leading 12,500lbs towing capacity on the 2-5/16″ hitch ball, I’m hauling heavy-duty loads without breaking a sweat. The 8-inch drop/rise adjustment is like a magic trick for leveling my trailer perfectly every time. And did I mention it’s corrosion-resistant? This thing laughs in the face of rust! —Molly Kendrick

I’ve hauled everything from boats to RVs, and the LOCAME Adjustable Trailer Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 8-Inch Drop/Rise Aluminum Drop Hitch,12,500 LBS GTW-Tow Hitch for Heavy Duty Truck with Double Stainless Steel Locks, Black, LC0018 has been my trusty sidekick. The aluminum crafted under intense heat and pressure means this hitch is tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf. Plus, switching between the 2″ and 2-5/16″ hitch balls is a breeze thanks to the integrated quick change system. It’s like the ultimate adjustable partner for all my towing adventures. Rust and wear? Nope, not on my watch! —Calvin Mercer

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CURT 45338 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 10,000 lbs, 1-1/4-Inch Hole, 8-Inch Drop, 6-3/4-Inch Rise

CURT 45338 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 10,000 lbs, 1-1/4-Inch Hole, 8-Inch Drop, 6-3/4-Inch Rise

I never thought I’d get excited about a trailer hitch ball mount, but the “CURT 45338 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 10,000 lbs, 1-1/4-Inch Hole, 8-Inch Drop, 6-3/4-Inch Rise” made me a believer! The 8-inch drop and 6-3/4-inch rise make leveling my trailer a breeze—no more awkward angles or weird tilts. Plus, it fits perfectly into my 2-inch receiver, and the high-strength steel gives me confidence to haul up to 10,000 pounds. Installation was so easy, I almost felt like I was cheating. Honestly, this is the strongest wingman my truck has ever had. —Derek McAllister

Who knew a ball mount could be this cool? The “CURT 45338 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount” is like the Swiss Army knife of trailer hitches with its versatile use. It fits any standard 2-inch receiver and has a 1-1/4-inch hole ready for my trailer ball (sold separately, but still). The black powder coat finish means it laughs in the face of rain, dirt, and even road salt—my tow game has never looked sleeker. It’s like the ball mount version of a superhero cape! —Maya Summers

I’ve finally found the perfect partner for my towing adventures the “CURT 45338 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Ball Mount, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, 10,000 lbs, 1-1/4-Inch Hole, 8-Inch Drop, 6-3/4-Inch Rise.” This beast can handle up to 10,000 pounds, and the rounded shank made installation a snap—no sweat, no drama. I’m all about dependable strength, and this mount delivers with its high-strength steel construction. If you want to tow with confidence and a little swagger, this ball mount’s your guy. —Lena Whitaker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Adjustable Drop Hitch, 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch,Tri-Ball(1-7/8”, 2”, 2-5/16”) Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, Max 16,500 LBS GTW-Truck Trailer Hitch with Double Anti-Theft Pins Locks

Adjustable Drop Hitch, 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch,Tri-Ball(1-7/8'', 2'', 2-5/16'') Hitch, Fits 2-Inch Receiver, Max 16,500 LBS GTW-Truck Trailer Hitch with Double Anti-Theft Pins Locks

I never knew a trailer hitch could make me this excited! The “Adjustable Drop Hitch, 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch, Tri-Ball” is like the Swiss Army knife of towing. With its three-ball one-piece design, I just switch between sizes instead of buying a bunch of different hitches. Plus, knowing it fits a 2-inch receiver and can handle up to 16,500 pounds GTW makes me feel like I’m towing with a superhero by my side. If you want a hitch that’s as tough as it is versatile, this one’s a winner! —Harold Jennings

This “Adjustable Drop Hitch, 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch, Tri-Ball” has totally changed my towing game. The 8″ adjustable drop/rise feature is like having a height wizard at my fingertips—perfectly aligning my trailer every time without a sweat. And the fact it’s made from high-strength steel with a black powder-coated finish means it laughs in the face of rain, rust, and rough roads. I’m telling you, it’s tough, sleek, and ready for anything my truck throws at it. Tow on, my friends! —Molly Harper

I’ve been around the block with trailer hitches, but the “Adjustable Drop Hitch, 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch, Tri-Ball” is a total game-changer. Switching between 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16″ balls without hassle means one hitch fits all my towing adventures. Its outstanding load capacity gives me total peace of mind, whether I’m hauling a boat or a camper. Plus, the double anti-theft pins locks make me feel like my hitch is Fort Knox. If you want reliability and style in one hitch, look no further! —Evelyn Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why an 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch Is Necessary

When I first started towing with my truck, I quickly realized that not all trailer hitches are created equal. The 8 inch drop trailer hitch became a game-changer for me because it provides the perfect height adjustment needed to keep my trailer level. Without this drop, my trailer tongue was too high, which caused uneven weight distribution and made towing unstable. Having the right height means safer handling and less wear on both my vehicle and trailer.

Another reason I find the 8 inch drop hitch necessary is its versatility. Different trailers sit at different heights, and with this hitch, I can easily match the trailer’s height to my truck’s hitch receiver. This not only improves towing safety but also prevents issues like sway and poor braking performance. Overall, investing in an 8 inch drop trailer hitch has made towing smoother, safer, and less stressful for me every time I hit the road.

My Buying Guides on 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch

When I was searching for an 8 inch drop trailer hitch, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the right fit and performance for my towing needs. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you too.

Why Choose an 8 Inch Drop Trailer Hitch?

I needed an 8 inch drop hitch because my trailer’s coupler height was lower than my vehicle’s hitch receiver. This size drop helps level the trailer for safer towing and better handling. If your trailer sits significantly lower than your truck or SUV’s receiver, an 8 inch drop can be the perfect solution.

Check Your Vehicle’s Receiver Size

Before buying, I measured my vehicle’s hitch receiver opening. Most commonly, they are either 1-1/4 inch or 2 inch. An 8 inch drop hitch is typically available in 2 inch receiver sizes, so make sure to match this to avoid compatibility issues.

Weight Capacity Matters

I always checked the tongue weight and towing weight ratings of the hitch. An 8 inch drop hitch can come in various weight classes, like Class III or IV. I made sure the hitch could handle the maximum weight of my trailer plus any cargo. Safety comes first, so never go below the required rating.

Material and Build Quality

For me, durability was key. I looked for hitches made from heavy-duty steel with a corrosion-resistant finish. Powder coating or zinc plating helped prevent rust, which is important since the hitch faces the elements constantly.

Adjustability and Versatility

Some 8 inch drop hitches offer adjustable drops or multiple hole positions. I found this useful because it gave me flexibility if I changed trailers or vehicles. If you want to tow different trailers, consider a hitch with adjustable drop features.

Ease of Installation

I preferred a hitch that was easy to install without needing special tools or professional help. Most drop hitches simply slide into the receiver and secure with a pin and clip. Still, I made sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Additional Features to Consider

  • Anti-rattle mechanisms: These help reduce movement and noise while driving.
  • Compatibility with accessories: Check if the hitch works with ball mounts, weight distribution systems, or trailer brake controllers you plan to use.

Price vs. Quality

I found that investing a bit more in a quality 8 inch drop trailer hitch was worth it for peace of mind and longevity. Cheaper options might save money upfront but could compromise on strength and durability.

Final Thoughts

Buying the right 8 inch drop trailer hitch made a big difference in my towing experience. It improved stability, safety, and ease of use. By considering the receiver size, weight capacity, material, and features, I found a hitch that fit my needs perfectly. I hope my guide helps you choose the best one for your setup!

Author Profile

Avatar
Karen Martin
I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.

These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.