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What trucks have a 2.5 inch receiver?

2.5-inch hitch receivers are typically found on heavy-duty pickups such as Ford F-Series Super Duty, Ram Heavy Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, and GMC Sierra HD.


These Class IV receivers are used for higher towing capacities and are less common on light-duty half-ton trucks. Availability can vary by model year, trim level, and optional tow packages, so always verify for your exact vehicle.


Overview: where the 2.5-inch receiver shows up


Below is a concise look at the truck families that routinely come with a 2.5-inch receiver in current mainstream configurations. Exact specs can differ by year and trim, so cross-check with official documentation for your specific vehicle.


Common heavy-duty trucks with 2.5-inch receivers



  • Ford F-Series Super Duty (F-250 and F-350) – widely equipped with a 2.5-inch receiver in many tow-package configurations.

  • Ram Heavy Duty (2500 and 3500) – frequently ships with a 2.5-inch receiver for higher towing capacity.

  • Chevrolet Silverado HD (2500HD, 3500HD) – commonly paired with a 2.5-inch receiver in factory tow setups.

  • GMC Sierra HD (2500HD, 3500HD) – often offered with a 2.5-inch hitch in heavy-duty builds.


Note: Availability can vary by year and option packages. Some trims may use a 2-inch receiver instead, or offer 2.5-inch as an upgrade. Always confirm on the actual hitch label or via the dealer for your exact model and configuration.


How to verify for your specific vehicle


To confirm your truck’s receiver size, use these steps before buying accessories or towing equipment:



  • Check the owner’s manual or the factory tow package documentation for the exact receiver size (2.5 inches) and class.

  • Inspect the hitch receiver itself for any stamped size information (2.5" and Class IV, etc.).

  • Consult the dealership or manufacturer with your exact year, make, model, and trim to verify compatibility.


With the correct receiver size confirmed, you can select compatible drawbars, balls, and towing accessories that meet the vehicle’s rated towing capacity and safety requirements.


Summary


In today’s market, 2.5-inch receivers are most common on heavy-duty pickups designed for substantial towing, including Ford F-Series Super Duty, Ram Heavy Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, and GMC Sierra HD. While typical on 3/4-ton and 1-ton trucks, they are not universal across all trims or model years, so verification via the manual, hitch label, or dealer is essential before purchasing towing gear.

What trucks have a 2.5 receiver?


A 2.5" receiver hitch is typically used by larger, heavy-duty vehicles designed for towing significant loads, like RVs, campers, boats, and heavy equipment trailers. You can usually find a 2-1/2" trailer hitch on these types of trucks: Ford F-250, F-350, F-450 Super Duty. Chevy Silverado 2500, 3500.



What size receiver does a F250 have?


A Ford F-250 has either a 2.5-inch or a 3-inch receiver, depending on the specific model year and optional towing packages. The 3-inch receiver is typically included with the High Capacity Trailer Tow Package, while standard models come with a 2.5-inch receiver. To confirm, measure the inside of the receiver opening.
 

  • Check your vehicle's options: If your F-250 has the High Capacity Trailer Tow Package, it likely has a 3-inch receiver. 
  • Measure the receiver opening: For a definitive answer, measure the inside dimensions of the receiver hitch opening. 
    • A 2.5-inch receiver will measure 2.5 inches across the inside opening. 
    • A 3-inch receiver will measure 3 inches across the inside opening. 
  • Consider receiver sleeves: Some 3-inch receivers come with a reducing sleeve to fit 2.5-inch hitches, but this can cause slop and rattle. It's best to use a hitch that matches your receiver size for the most secure connection. 



What is the difference between a 2 and 2.5 receiver?


2.5" vs 2" Hitches: What You Really Need to Know
Here's what actually matters: 2” hitches work for most trailers under 10,000 lbs. 2.5” hitches support heavier loads, up to 20,000 lbs. 2” receivers are found on half-ton trucks.



What class is a 2.5 inch receiver?


A 2.5-inch receiver is typically a Class 5 hitch, designed for heavy-duty towing. This classification indicates it has a much higher towing capacity than smaller hitches, often rated to handle up to or over 20,000 lbs of gross trailer weight. 

  • Class 5: This is the heaviest-duty class, with 2.5-inch receivers being the common size for this class. 
  • Capacity: Class 5 hitches can tow loads in excess of 10,000 lbs and are found on heavy-duty trucks and SUVs. 
  • Applications: They are used for towing large trailers, such as large campers, horse trailers, and other commercial or heavy-duty loads. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.