5ver Hitch on 2001

[Sarge]

Is there any issues I should know about before getting a new hitch put into my Long Bed 2001? I hear you can not weld or cut the 03' frame, but does that apply to the 01? Any help or suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks, Sarge

 

[Casey Balvert]

I don't think you can weld it. But you can drill holes in the side of the frame to attach the brackets. Most hitches have brackets that must be bolted to the frame. Unfortunately I can't even drill the hydroformed frame on my 2003. Cheers



Casey

 

[kluther]

according to draw tite you can weld to the 2001 frame. would I ?

 

[Barry]

Do not weld your hitch brackets to the frame. If and when your truck is sold and it goes to the auction, it will run thru the auction as "Frame altered or damaged" which effects the value of the truck. A used car manager who is sharp will take that in to consideration when trading for a unit that has had welding done to the truck. Does it hurt the frame... ... ... . I don't know, I am not a metal engineer. Does it hurt the value... ... ... yes, I am a dealer. Mi dos pesos... ... .....

 

[Okie-Go]

I had the same hitch rails from a 98 auto put in the 01 truck. Both had the long bed.

 

[exfuzz01]

5er hitch

I have a Reese Trail Boss installed in my long bed. . the rails are bolted through the bed. No welding done to my knowledge.

 

[Tom G]

Lil Rocker Installed

Had a 5er hitch installed (see sig. ) in mine using bolts and have had no problems to date. Checked hitch bolts after about 2,000 miles of towing and found one bolt needed about 1/2 turn. This bolt may not been torqued to the same value as the other bolts by installer but I will never know. Would not weld on truck frame.



If I were to have the hitch installed again I would ask the installer to use Loctite 242 or something like it to ensure they never come loose. Also make sure you DON'T install over a sprayed in or plastic bed liner. Movement/compression of liner material is not good for a secure hitch install.



Tom G.