PRODUCT REVIEW
PHOTOS BY BRANDON ROWAN
B & W TOW AND STOW HITCH
By Matt Williams
Whether you ’ re trailering 2 miles or 2,000 , it ’ s always wise to have a high-quality hitch on your truck or SUV so the rig rides level and secure . B & W Trailer Hitches has the hook-up in the Tow and Stow , a heavy-duty drop hitch available in varied finishes and sizes with a range of height adjustments and a rotating ball assembly that allows for towing multiple trailers without swapping balls .
First Impression
One look and it ’ s plain to see this is a beast of a hitch that Kansas-based B & W spared no expense in building . Made from premium U . S . carbon steel , the hitch is designed with a host of cool features that were carefully considered and precision-machined to optimize functionality , durability , convenience and user-friendly operation while providing a beefy , custom look . It ’ s available in chrome or a durable two E-coat and powder-coat finish that improves corrosion protection .
In Action
I ’ ve been using static drop hitches and interchangeable trailer balls to accommodate a stable of boat and utility trailers for decades , but the Tow and Stow is rock-solid proof that there ’ s a better way . The convenience factor ranks at the top of the list of things to love about this hitch . It ’ s like having multiple hitches with varied drops or rises and as many as three ball sizes all in one .
The swing arm adjusts up or down in 1-inch increments by removing two stainless pins , while swapping balls is as simple as removing a single pin and rotating the ball assembly to the proper size ; no more busted knuckles or filthy hands from breaking loose rusty nuts with cumbersome wrenches . To stow it out of the way , just remove the adjustment pins and rotate the hitch under the vehicle bumper and replace the pins . It ’ s best to stow with the bald face of the ball assembly facing down to optimize ground clearance .
Final Thoughts
The folks at B & W aren ’ t kidding around when they claim the Tow and Stow is the last hitch you ’ ll ever need .
I pull multiple trailer styles with different coupler sizes using a 3 / 4-ton 4x4 equipped with tall tires — sometimes with a Capri overhead camper in the bed . The TS20049B ( 7-inch drop / 7.5 inch , tri-ball model ) allows for pulling every trailer I own without the hassle of changing out balls or swapping to a different drop hitch to achieve a level ride . The convenience and quality easily justify the $ 329 price .
Performance Advice
— Stow the hitch beneath the bumper when not in use to avoid banging your shins or dragging the hitch on unlevel ground .
— Periodic cleaning and lubing of the pins using white lithium grease promotes smooth operation and prevents corrosion .
— Protect your investment from theft by securing it to the receiver hitch with a locking device .
— Always make sure the ball is adjusted to the proper height so the trailer tows level .
— Select a shank size that fits your receiver hitch without a reducer sleeve . A reducer sleeve will cut down on towing capacity , plus it could allow for movement or “ slop ” that can cause noise and possible wear on the pins .
64 MAJORLEAGUEFISHING . COM | AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2021