Front Tow Hitch For 3rd Gen Truck ????

[RankRam]

I have done the search for threads about this topic and it was of some help, but I still have not found what will work for my particular needs. I have always had have a tough time getting my rv backed in to my space in the back yard. It is pretty much a serpentine path to get it parked and stored. I'm waiting for my recently ordered toyhauler to be delivered and I know it will be even harder to get it parked. The toy hauler is 6" wider than any of the rv's I've had, so you see what I'm up against.



I found this hitch when I did my search http://www.etrailer.com/productdetail.asp?partno=5020&vehicleid=3903&yearfrom=2004&h=e



The problem I see is that the verticle weight rating is only 300 lbs I'm thinking a 26' toyhauler will well over that.



It seems to me that I will be better off with a front hitch when moving this rv to the backyard. I will say I have a cdl license and I'm not a poor driver when it comes to backing a trailer. I think it will be safer to use a front hitch as opposed to the rear mount.



Does anyone have any advice for me as to what I should do?



Thanks and sorry for the long post.

 

[DCaswell]

You could always add a Buckstop bumper, it has a receiver built in. If you just add a receiver do not be too worried about the weight if you are just using it to park your trailer. You are not going far or fast. I have used mine to position units in very tight locations & it sure makes things easier.

dennis

 

[Thomas]

... the verticle weight rating is only 300 lbs I'm thinking a 26' toyhauler will well over that...

I use a DrawTite 65003 on the front of my model year 2000 Ram. It's rated at 500 pounds cargo capacity. Given that DrawTite describes the vertical weight limit of the receiver as cargo capacity rather than tongue weight, I feel quite confident spotting my 800 pound tongue-weight trailer at 3 miles per hour vs. traveling on the highway at 75 miles per hour with 500 pounds of front cargo. I think the 500 pounds of cargo would test the receiver a lot more than the 800 pound tongue weight.



As DCaswell posted above: "You are not going far or fast. "

 

[RAMINSPEED]

Ok Darin, what toy box are you getting?



I would be very shy of using a front hitch for the toy box due to the tongue weight on toy box trailers are VERY heavy, my 28' toy haulers tongue weight without any water is about 1,700 lbs. Its very heavy. Plus the front axle isn't that strong. If it were your old trailer you might be able to get away with it. I think the front hitches are good for the 2000 lb boat, but not a good idea for a heavy toy hauler. Good luck with your venture.

 

[RankRam]

Thanks for the info everyone.



I will keep looking for a hitch that is stronger than the 300 lb verticle rating for now.



Don I don't think the tongue weight of my toyhauler is close to what yours is. The specs say 980lbs. I'm going to wait and see what it actually is and then make my choice on what to do.



Here is a link to the trailer that we are waiting for.



This is the model #263VTB



http://www.wanderer-rv.com/WandererVortex.htm

 

[RAMINSPEED]

Looks very Nice. Congrats! The stated trailer tongue weight (over all weight included) is a dry striped model typically. That means no battery(s), generator, A/C, Microwave, LPG, Personal belongings, etc. My unit claims 1200 lbs on the tongue but I know its closer to 1700 lbs. If in doubt, when you go to pick it up, have them weight the tongue. Most good RV shops have a tongue scale. I have seen multiple other people that are way over weight on their tongues. Toy haulers are notorious for being tongue heavy. I just want you to be aware of the issue.