Factory Installed Bumber Hitch

[ray1933]

I made a scary discovery well putting air in my Ride Rite overloads the other day. Had the camper and extension bumper installed with the horse trailer hooked up. Saw what looked to be a crack in the bumper, had to get my glasses and flashlight so I could see good. One side had nearly a two inch crack and the other side about 3/4 of inch one started.

So off to the welding shop to have the repair work done. I was told that this was not uncommon to see, even without an extension bumper.

Hate to think what could have happened. :--) So guys it may pay to look the bumper hitch over good.

 

[Koa Man]

Dodge's receiver hitch is prone to cracking also. Mine had cracks on both sides. Threw it away and put on a class V.

 

[ray1933]

Hitch

Koa Man

Could not throw it away as the extension brackets are welded right to it.



I tried to attach a photo of the repair but the file size is too large.

If any one wants to see the area that cracked and the repair, email me and I will send it.

We just added a gusset and brace to each side.

 

[BV]

Hitch Recall

My 99 had a recall for possible cracks on the receiver - unfortunately I changed it out to a class V hitch before the recall was in place.



If you need a good scare, watch while your driving down the road for some of the contractors that tow heavy with the factory hitch. Spooky to watch the reciever flex enough to notice

 

[Koa Man]

Ray, I did not mean for you to throw away your bumper hitch. I meant that I threw away my factory receiver hitch, which is bolted on, and replaced it with the class V hitch. IMO the factory is supposed to provide a class V hitch as standard equip. when you buy a diesel and order the towing package. A 5K hitch is pretty wimpy for our trucks.

 

[Blakers]

What is the V hitch rated for?



Blake

 

[Koa Man]

The one I have is 10K WC and 14K WD.