Can a DC Tow pkg be installed later

[abdiver]

Question: Can a factory hitch be install on a New 05 Since it was not included in the original pkg. AND be as per DC recomendations?



Is the frame predrilled to accept a rear hitch if I order it from my dealer. Would there be anything regarding the capacity plate on truck that would have to be changed?



Thanks

 

[klenger]

Go to http://www.mopar.com/MoparController?action=redirect&brand=dodge&appname=accessories and look for the accessory below:



82207911:

12,000-lb tow rating, 1,200-lb tongue weight rating with weight distributing equipment; otherwise 5,000-lb tow rating, 500-lb tongue weight rating, includes receiver plug, 2. 0" opening (trucks built 11/2002 and LATER) Hitch Ball sold separately.



You will also need the wiring harness 82207253:

Trailer Tow Wiring Harness Kit, with 7-way connector, plugs into vehicle wiring, no splicing required

 

[BigMike]

I did that to mine when I bought it new in '99. The dealer did the install, then it was covered by my warranty. Never have had a problem with it. Pulled a trailer for several years before I bought my 5er.

 

[abdiver]

So no drilling required Are existing factory holes already in Frame ?

 

[BigMike]

I assume the holes are already in the frame. Don't know for sure. I just told them I wanted it and two days later came back and picked it up.

 

[jelag]

I know that Dave Smith and Dishman both do a add on trailer tow package... and usually charge the customer the same price as if it was ordered... . I know that one of these dealers shared with me that they do it... because the mark up on the dealer installed kit is greater than the factory kit... . and when you do lots of heavy discounting they need the pennies... . NOW the real issue here. . was I told the truth... .

 

[Bob4x4]

Ok here is the skinny... ... ... The factory installed hitch is a rear crossmember. It is available and is a bolt in replacement for the non hitch equipped cross member. You can also get a dealer installed hitch that bolts on by snaking a couple of bolts with plates inside the crossmember. That version is cheaper but 2 bolts drop down from the top through the bumper so you have to cut out the 2 round covers next to the ball hole in the bumper. They do supply a cover that will hide this and it has a Logo molded in. There is also a 7 way wiring harness that is available,not quita a bolt-in but not too tough to add.



Bob

 

[Ftuttle]

I have the after-market bolt-on hitch - not too bad to install (took about 10 minutes). I didn't know that there was a 7 pin wiring harness available until this thread - just ordered it from my dealer ($72 or so) - do you know if it comes w/ instructions? Or, do they not include the instructions so that the dealership can charge either A) an arm and a leg or B) first born child rates for install?



I always thought it funny (odd, not haha) that mine came w/ the towing mirrors (which I wouldn't trade for the world) and a 4-pin connector, but no tow package of 7 pin w/ hitch (I bought off the lot). My 4-pin harness has corroded to badly, that I cannot use it - seems like saltwater from first winter w/ the truck got into the cap and either caused a short or just corroded the heck out of the plug - the cover got so hot that it melted (hence why I am leaning towards a short).



-frank

 

[Bob4x4]

You are going to have to clean up that 4 way harness... ... ... The 7 way plugs into it. You have to solder a wire for the Back-up lights and run the harness up to the battery for the main feed. It is a pretty nice pkg,I dont remember how good the directions are... ... ... I dont need no stinking directions :-laf . Most of the instructions for D/C accessories have done away with all text and just have pictures



Bob

 

[Bob4x4]

I know that Dave Smith and Dishman both do a add on trailer tow package... and usually charge the customer the same price as if it was ordered... . I know that one of these dealers shared with me that they do it... because the mark up on the dealer installed kit is greater than the factory kit... . and when you do lots of heavy discounting they need the pennies... . NOW the real issue here. . was I told the truth... .

Jim. The factory installed price is almost always less than dealer installed. The factory doesn't get to charge labor



Bob

 

[Ftuttle]

Bob4X4 - thanks - I figured I'd probably have to do that - it makes sense.



-frank

 

[HDaniel]

When I bought mine. I had them install the reciever and wire everything up. I told them that I could not believe that a diesel p/u would come w/o the tow package. I did this after the papers were signed, and it did not cost me a dime. The holes were already there so there is no drilling required if you were to do it yourself.