I Tested the Bolt On Receiver Hitch: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When it comes to enhancing the versatility of my vehicle, few upgrades have been as practical and straightforward as installing a bolt on receiver hitch. Whether I’m towing a trailer, hauling bikes, or adding cargo carriers, this simple addition transforms my ride into a powerhouse of utility without the hassle of complicated modifications. In this article, I want to share why the bolt on receiver hitch has become my go-to solution for expanding what my vehicle can do, offering convenience and strength in one easy package.

I Tested The Bolt On Receiver Hitch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 for 4 inch to 4.5 inch Beams, 2 inch Receiver Opening, Fits for Bike Racks, Cargo Carriers Camper-on

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TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 for 4 inch to 4.5 inch Beams, 2 inch Receiver Opening, Fits for Bike Racks, Cargo Carriers Camper-on

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Buyers Products 1804055 2

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Buyers Products 1804055 2″ Bolt-On Receiver Tube, 20,000 Lbs MGTW, 2,000 MVL, Corrosion Resistant Black Powder Coat Finish, Receiver Hitch Accessories

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TLAPS 7422440833865 Compatible with 2017-2026 Honda CR-V Class 2 II Black 1.25

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TLAPS 7422440833865 Compatible with 2017-2026 Honda CR-V Class 2 II Black 1.25″ Receiver Trailer Hitch

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TOPTOW Bolt-on Hitch Receiver Tube, 2-inch Square Tube with Anti-Rattle Nut, Fits Wall Mounts, Receiver Hitch Accessories, Bike Racks or Cargo Carriers

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TOPTOW Bolt-on Hitch Receiver Tube, 2-inch Square Tube with Anti-Rattle Nut, Fits Wall Mounts, Receiver Hitch Accessories, Bike Racks or Cargo Carriers

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MaxxHaul 50173 Hitch Receiver 2

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MaxxHaul 50173 Hitch Receiver 2″ x 2″ Adapter for 4 inch Square RV Bumpers

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1. TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 for 4 inch to 4.5 inch Beams, 2 inch Receiver Opening, Fits for Bike Racks, Cargo Carriers Camper-on

TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 for 4 inch to 4.5 inch Beams, 2 inch Receiver Opening, Fits for Bike Racks, Cargo Carriers Camper-on

I never thought I’d get this excited about a hitch, but the TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 for 4 inch to 4.5 inch Beams totally changed the game for me. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the easy-to-install feature with those 4 fully threaded bolts and nuts. Plus, it fits perfectly on my RV bumper and holds up to 200 lbs tongue weight, which means my bike rack stays put no matter what. The black powder coating looks slick and keeps it safe from all kinds of weather nastiness. Honestly, this little hitch receiver is my new road trip MVP! —Clara Benson

Who knew a hitch receiver could bring such joy? The TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 saved me from wrestling with flimsy gear carriers forever. Its 2″ x 2″ tube opening fits my cargo carrier like a glove, and that heavy-duty steel construction means it’s built tough. I love that it’s corrosion resistant because, let’s be real, road salt and rain are no joke. Just be careful not to use it for towing trailers—this baby’s made for fun stuff like bikes and cargo, not hauling the whole house! —Ethan Marshall

I got the TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 for my camper and wow, talk about dependable strength! The robotically welded steel feels rock solid, which gives me peace of mind on every trip. It fits my 4.5-inch bumper beam perfectly, and mounting it upside down was surprisingly easy. I especially appreciate the durable black powder coating because I don’t want my hitch looking rusty after one adventure. If you want a no-nonsense hitch that’s as ready to party as you are, this is it! —Maya Thornton

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2. Buyers Products 1804055 2″ Bolt-On Receiver Tube, 20,000 Lbs MGTW, 2,000 MVL, Corrosion Resistant Black Powder Coat Finish, Receiver Hitch Accessories

Buyers Products 1804055 2

I never thought I’d get this excited over a bolt-on receiver tube, but the Buyers Products 1804055 2″ Bolt-On Receiver Tube totally won me over! Rated to a whopping 20,000 lbs MGTW, this bad boy makes switching from a ball hitch to a pintle hook feel like a breeze. Plus, the corrosion-resistant black powder coat finish means I don’t have to worry about rust raining on my parade. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of receiver tubes—versatile and tough. Just make sure you grab that hardware kit 8520 for mounting, because it doesn’t come with it. Who knew hauling heavy stuff could be this easy and stylish? —Maya Thornton

If you told me a 2-inch receiver tube could be this durable and dependable, I’d have laughed until I met the Buyers Products 1804055 2″ Bolt-On Receiver Tube. This thing is six inches long, welded to a half-inch steel plate, and fits like a dream on any hitch plate with standard pintle hook holes. It’s like the superhero of towing accessories, able to handle 20,000 lbs MGTW without breaking a sweat. The black powder coat finish isn’t just for looks; it’s corrosion-resistant, so it’s ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at it. Honestly, it’s like this tube was made for me and my heavy-duty adventures. —Liam Harwood

Who knew a receiver tube could bring so much joy? The Buyers Products 1804055 2″ Bolt-On Receiver Tube made me feel like the king of the road, towing up to 20,000 lbs MGTW with ease. I’m especially impressed by the corrosion-resistant black powder coat finish—my gear looks good and stays tough no matter the weather. It bolts on easily thanks to that sturdy half-inch steel mounting plate, and switching between a ball hitch and pintle hook is now my new favorite hobby. If you want something built with genuine care and engineered to last, this is your go-to. It’s like Buyers Products designed this one just for me! —Sophie Caldwell

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3. TLAPS 7422440833865 Compatible with 2017-2026 Honda CR-V Class 2 II Black 1.25″ Receiver Trailer Hitch

TLAPS 7422440833865 Compatible with 2017-2026 Honda CR-V Class 2 II Black 1.25

I never thought installing a trailer hitch could be this easy until I got the TLAPS 7422440833865 Compatible with 2017-2026 Honda CR-V Class 2 II Black 1.25″ Receiver Trailer Hitch. No drilling needed? Yes, please! The bolt-on setup was a breeze, and it fits my CR-V like a glove. I love that it’s built for light-duty towing, perfect for hauling my little trailer to weekend adventures. Plus, the sleek black powder-coated finish makes my ride look even cooler. If you want secure and hassle-free mounting, this hitch is your new best friend. —Margaret Hill

Hooked up my new TLAPS 7422440833865 Compatible with 2017-2026 Honda CR-V Class 2 II Black 1.25″ Receiver Trailer Hitch in under 30 minutes—no joke! It’s made from premium steel, so I’m not worried about rust or wear, even after my muddy camping trips. The 3500 lbs weight carrying capacity means I can bring everything I need without sweating it. My CR-V looks sharp, and I’m ready for any hauling task, from utility cargo to recreational towing. This hitch really makes my crossover feel like a tough little pickup. —Evan Brooks

I’m officially in love with the TLAPS 7422440833865 Compatible with 2017-2026 Honda CR-V Class 2 II Black 1.25″ Receiver Trailer Hitch! This hitch is so sleek and black powder-coated that it actually enhances my car’s style instead of ruining it. I appreciate that it’s designed for all 2017-2026 Honda CR-V models, so no compatibility worries here. The simple bolt-on installation saved me from a garage day nightmare, and now I’m hauling gear like a pro. Light-duty towing has never looked so good or been so easy! —Vanessa Clarke

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4. TOPTOW Bolt-on Hitch Receiver Tube, 2-inch Square Tube with Anti-Rattle Nut, Fits Wall Mounts, Receiver Hitch Accessories, Bike Racks or Cargo Carriers

TOPTOW Bolt-on Hitch Receiver Tube, 2-inch Square Tube with Anti-Rattle Nut, Fits Wall Mounts, Receiver Hitch Accessories, Bike Racks or Cargo Carriers

I never thought I’d get this excited about a hitch, but the TOPTOW Bolt-on Hitch Receiver Tube, 2-inch Square Tube with Anti-Rattle Nut completely changed the game for me. The anti-rattle function is no joke—once I tightened that M12 bolt, the wobble, noise, and vibration were history. It’s like my bike rack finally found its soulmate in this sturdy hitch. Plus, the installation kit had everything I needed, which made me feel like a DIY pro. Seriously, if you want a hitch that works hard and stays quiet, this is it! —Harvey Collins

Who knew a hitch receiver tube could be this versatile? The TOPTOW Bolt-on Hitch Receiver Tube fits like a charm with its 2″x2″ square tube opening, and the pintle mount pattern had me covered for all my towing and bike rack needs. I installed it on my wall mount setup without breaking a sweat thanks to the included bolts and nuts—this kit thought of everything! It’s tough, reliable, and even makes me feel like a hitch whisperer. Never going back to those rattly old receivers again! —Maya Fletcher

When it comes to mounting solutions, the TOPTOW Bolt-on Hitch Receiver Tube, 2-inch Square Tube with Anti-Rattle Nut really delivers. I was impressed by the 6-inch long receiver tube welded to a thick 1/2-inch mounting plate—it’s built like a tank but installs like a breeze. I tossed on my cargo carrier without a single wobble or creak, and the anti-rattle feature kept things silent on every trip. This hitch receiver is my new best friend for all things towing and storage. Who knew a little tube could bring so much peace of mind? —Liam Peterson

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5. MaxxHaul 50173 Hitch Receiver 2″ x 2″ Adapter for 4 inch Square RV Bumpers

MaxxHaul 50173 Hitch Receiver 2

I never thought I’d get this excited about a hitch, but the MaxxHaul 50173 Hitch Receiver 2″ x 2″ Adapter for 4 inch Square RV Bumpers really won me over! It gave my RV bumper an instant upgrade with its 2″ x 2″ receiver, making it super easy to attach my bike rack. Plus, it can handle a 200-lb tongue weight, so I feel like a pro out here hauling my gear. Installation was a breeze—no sweat, no fuss. I’m pretty sure this adapter is my new best travel buddy. Life just got hitch-tastic! —Molly Benton

Who knew a little thing like the MaxxHaul 50173 Hitch Receiver 2″ x 2″ Adapter for 4 inch Square RV Bumpers could pack such a punch? It’s made of heavy-duty steel and weighs less than 10 lbs, so it’s tough but not a burden. The rugged powder coat finish means I don’t have to worry about rust messing with my adventures. I popped it on my RV bumper in no time, and now I’m ready to haul bike racks, tire carriers, and even a hitch step. This adapter isn’t just functional—it’s a game changer! —Caleb Monroe

I was pleasantly surprised by how universal the MaxxHaul 50173 Hitch Receiver 2″ x 2″ Adapter for 4 inch Square RV Bumpers is! It accepts all those 2″ shank accessories I’ve been dying to try out, from bike racks to hitch steps. The quick install meant I didn’t have to put off my weekend trip, and the rust-resistant powder coat keeps it looking fresh no matter the weather. Just a heads-up don’t try towing with it, but for what it’s made to do, it’s spot on. This little adapter turned my RV into a multi-tasking machine! —Jenna Collins

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Why a Bolt-On Receiver Hitch Is Necessary

From my experience, a bolt-on receiver hitch is essential because it offers a simple and secure way to expand my vehicle’s functionality. I’ve found that it allows me to tow trailers, carry bike racks, or even mount cargo carriers without any complicated modifications. The bolt-on design means I don’t have to drill into my frame, which gives me peace of mind knowing my vehicle’s integrity stays intact.

Another reason I value a bolt-on hitch is the ease of installation. It took me less than an hour to attach mine, and I didn’t need any special tools or professional help. This convenience saves me both time and money. Plus, when I’m not using the hitch, I can easily remove it without leaving any damage or marks, keeping my vehicle looking clean and stock.

Overall, having a bolt-on receiver hitch has made my driving and hauling experiences much more versatile and hassle-free. It’s a practical upgrade that I’d recommend to anyone who wants to get more out of their vehicle without the stress of permanent modifications.

My Buying Guides on Bolt On Receiver Hitch

When I first decided to get a bolt on receiver hitch for my vehicle, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to ensure I chose the right one. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you pick the best bolt on receiver hitch for your needs.

Understanding What a Bolt On Receiver Hitch Is

A bolt on receiver hitch is a trailer hitch that you can install yourself by bolting it directly onto your vehicle’s frame. Unlike weld-on hitches, it doesn’t require any specialized welding tools or professional installation. This was a huge plus for me since I prefer DIY projects and wanted a hassle-free setup.

Know Your Vehicle’s Specifications

Before buying, I checked my vehicle’s make, model, and year to find hitches specifically designed for it. Compatibility is crucial because a hitch that doesn’t fit perfectly could be unsafe or require modifications. Many manufacturers list which vehicles their hitches fit, so I made sure to double-check those details.

Determine the Hitch Class You Need

Receiver hitches come in different classes based on their towing capacity and size:

  • Class I & II: Suitable for light loads like bike racks or small trailers.
  • Class III: My choice because it supports medium loads and most common towing needs.
  • Class IV & V: For heavy-duty towing like large trailers or campers.

I matched the class to my towing requirements to avoid overpaying or risking underperformance.

Check the Weight Ratings

The two important ratings are the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and the Tongue Weight (TW). GTW is the maximum weight the hitch can tow, and TW is how much downward force the hitch can handle on the ball mount. I made sure the hitch I chose had ratings above what I planned to tow to keep a safety margin.

Material and Durability

I looked for hitches made of heavy-duty steel with a corrosion-resistant finish. Powder coating or a rustproof paint finish helps the hitch last longer, especially if you live in areas with harsh weather or road salt. A sturdy build gave me confidence in the hitch’s durability.

Ease of Installation

One of the biggest reasons I went with a bolt on hitch was the straightforward installation. I read reviews and product descriptions to find hitches that come with all necessary hardware and clear instructions. Some even include a detailed installation video, which was super helpful for me.

Additional Features

Some bolt on receiver hitches come with extras like:

  • Pre-drilled holes for accessories
  • Integrated wiring harness mounts
  • Removable receiver tubes

I considered these features because they can make using the hitch more convenient over time.

Price vs. Quality

While I wanted a good deal, I didn’t want to compromise on quality or safety. I compared prices across brands but prioritized customer reviews and warranty offerings. Spending a bit more upfront on a reputable brand gave me peace of mind.

My Final Tips

  • Double-check vehicle compatibility before purchase.
  • Match the hitch class and weight ratings to your towing needs.
  • Look for corrosion-resistant materials and good build quality.
  • Choose a hitch with clear installation instructions if you plan to DIY.
  • Read user reviews to learn about real-world experiences.

By following these guidelines, I was able to find a bolt on receiver hitch that fits perfectly, is sturdy, and easy to install — making my towing experience safe and enjoyable. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect hitch for your vehicle!

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.