Benchy Trailer Hitch Cover

This is a trailer hitch cover I designed that features a small 3D Benchy sitting on top of a water surface. The top of the cover is shaped like a water, so the Benchy looks like it’s floating on the it.

The idea was to turn a normal hitch plug into something a bit more fun for people who enjoy 3D printing. Since Benchy is such a well-known test model in the 3D printing community, it felt like the perfect little boat to use for the design.

The lower part of the model is the hitch insert. It has a ribbed shape for easy removal and it sits firmly inside the hitch receiver and also adds a bit of strength.

It’s a simple print and makes a nice small accessory for the back of a vehicle. If you’re into 3D printing, other makers will immediately recognize the Benchy.

Design idea

The goal was to make something that combines a practical part with a bit of 3D printing culture.

Instead of just placing the Benchy on a flat surface, I shaped the top like moving water so the boat looks like it’s riding on a small wave. The water surface also helps blend the Benchy into the hitch cover so it looks like one complete piece.

It’s meant to be a small detail on your vehicle that other makers might notice and smile at.

Printing

The model prints easily on most FDM printers.

PLA works fine, but PETG or ASA would probably last longer outdoors if the vehicle stays in the sun a lot.

Supports is required for the inside top of the hitch cover with settings below:

-Enable Supports

-Type: Tree Auto

-On Build plate only

-Support Critical regions only

Layers: 3

Infil 15% Gyroid

Brim: Outside Only (3-4mm should be fine)

3D Benchy trailer hitch cover

0.2mm layer, 3 walls, 15% infill

0.2mm layer, 3 walls, 15% infill