It has not been mentioned in this thread that there are basically only two aftermarket hitch manufacturers in the USA. Curt and Cequent. They are sold under a number of different brand names.
This is T1N information, but should apply in general to any Curt or Cequent hitch.
Curt vs Cequent
So let's look at which is more sturdy.
They are different designs.
The Curt hitch has a straight square shape. The pull is directly against the center.
The Cequent design uses a rectangular shape with some formed angles to change the stresses. Using formed shapes can increase the load rating of a given structure/material.
At the receiver, the Cequent has 2 ea. plates welded to the rectangular main beam shape vs one plate on the Curt. Two plates distribute stresses differently vs one.
To carry the tongue weight, the vertical walls of the Cequent hitch rectangle shape are equal to the Curt square walls. (generally for design both need to match to the receiver tube.)
Some pictures.
Is one more sturdy than the other?
The designs are different.
The Curt appears to stick out a bit further from the bumper than the Cequent. The Curt requires drilling. The Cequent doesn't. The Cequent design probably has less visible parts when looking at the rear bumper area. The Curt design probably provides a bit more bump protection.
To my knowledge either design will give good service as both have a good reputation.
vic
For the T1N pictures, not VS30. The original thread seems to have disappeared or I would have linked it. Once you expand this link the post does have the
T1N info and pics.
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