Welding to Frame

[Big MAK]

Hitch installer welded my hitch to the frame (despite me specifically making sure they had the bolt in mounting brackets).



Too late now...



So... it seems they and even the dealers weld these hitch supports to the frame quite often.



Other then the typical manufacturer's hype what's the reality of quality welding to the frame (not sloppy torch everything welds)?

 

[vagabond]

Mine was welded by Take3 on my 2004. 5. Never have had a problem. Had a rough haul one trip with a 38ft. 2 car hauler. Had the welds inspected after and all was fine.



Tommie

 

[RJOL]

If they did that to my truck, after specifically asking them to use a bolt on hitch, I'd be pretty unhappy. If I remember correctly, Chrysler came out with a guide as to how to drill or weld on the frame. The guide was very specific about the size and location of holes, and how to weld. The problem is that you were at the mercy of the hitch installer. Was their welder fully qualified and did they follow the Chrysler guidance, or was he/she just their lot jockey that slapped on the weld, added extra for good measure, and decided that it looked good...



This is exactly why a lot of us install our own hitches. If you do it, and follow the installation instructions carefully, you know it was done right and you don't have some installer doing it the way they think it should be done...



I suppose, if you're concerned, you could take it to a certified welding shop, and ask them to look at it. Make sure they understand the welding issues on this frame before you take it in. If they say it's good then you should probably be okay. If not, you may have to go back to the installer and see what they are willing to do to make it right...

 

[JHardwick]

My hitch has been welded in for 170,000 miles, probably 150,000 of that with a trailer hooked to it

 

[MChildress]

My Tough Country running boards are welded to the frame no problems. I did review the guide lines on drilling and welding before proceeding. I have seen several 5er hitches that were bolted on and looked like they had used an air impack and collasped the frame tube from not using a barrel bushing on the frame bolts.

 

[klenger]

I hate to hear these nightmare stories of "professional" installations.