|
|
Post by universalexports on Mar 8, 2012 15:50:50 GMT -5
well I have lowered my Shasta a bit, and my Chevy Colorado sits crazy high in the rear, causing my rear bumper of the camper to be about 2 inches off the ground I didnt want to invest in a compete receiver hitch that mounts between the frame rails, (about $165.00) and a little goggleing solved my issue I found this plate that will bolt under my bumper, and then I just use a drop hitch, now to figure out just how much drop I need. I found this complete setup for $45.00 on ebay. 5,000 pound towing capacity and 500 pound tongue weight. should be enough.  this shows how low my camper sits now, it did have the axles flipped and sit crazy high  |
|
|
|
Post by LittleVintageTrailer on Mar 8, 2012 15:57:26 GMT -5
My new Jeep even needed a drop down hitch to tow the Compact. I think the drop down is about a foot. I think I could of even got one a little lower. My jeep isn't raised or anything either.
|
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 9, 2012 20:24:56 GMT -5
Just because that hitch is rated for 5000/500 doesn't mean your bumper is, check your manual or with a trailer shop. I'd be hesitant...
|
|
|
|
Post by universalexports on Mar 9, 2012 22:14:48 GMT -5
no problems there, the truck can tow up to 4,000 lb's for my version (single cab) with a tounge weight of no more that 500 lbs
it would be 5,500 pounds if I had the extended cab or quad cab, not sure why, I guess more vehicle weight, I do have the biggest motor they offer in the single cab 242 hp
"Notes ON COLORADO: Trailer tongue weight should be 10–15 percent of total loaded trailer weight (up to 500 lbs.). Addition of trailer tongue weight must not cause vehicle to exceed Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (RGAWR) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The standard base cooling system includes all content required to attain maximum trailer rating. No optional cooling equipment available".
so looks like I right where I need to be.
|
|
vikx
3K Post Member
Posts: 3,556
|
Post by vikx on Mar 10, 2012 2:04:58 GMT -5
I tend to agree with Bow_Tied. Just because the numbers are right, doesn't mean it's strong. I lost the entire hitch off a truck once. That was enough for me. I don't skimp on towing equipment.
|
|
|
|
Post by schweetcruisers on Mar 10, 2012 11:41:55 GMT -5
I personally wouldn't trust that. The trailer puts a lot of torque on the reciever and I think for piece of mind and safety you should go with a frame mount hitch and a drop reciever, I would never put a trailer on just the bumper.
|
|
|
|
Post by universalexports on Mar 10, 2012 13:53:18 GMT -5
I get what you are saying,,, I guess, but I have never seen a bumper pulled into, or broken, and I have hauled my race truck to the track for over 20 years with the bumper on my trucks, as well have my friends. the only issue I can possibly see is the bolts and nuts coming loose (a tac weld will fix that) or using cheap bolts, and them braking, or using to small of bolts, and them pulling through.
I just moved my boy to Texas, a 16 hour round trip a month ago, using my car trailer and he had to have had a couple thousand pounds of everything he owned, riding mower, weight bench, couch, bed etc. and I didnt have a single issue.
I cant see this not working with proper bolts, and installed correctly, and checked periodically.
I do want to have a buddy weld a couple of pieces of angled 1/4 inch steel for more reinforcing on the bottom, and my safety chains are long enough to hook into the frame. they are really to long otherwise and I have to twist them around each other several times otherwise.
but the idea that a bumper will brake or rip off to me sounds crazy.
|
|
vikx
3K Post Member
Posts: 3,556
|
Post by vikx on Mar 11, 2012 1:50:55 GMT -5
You know those trucks with the bumper angled downward? I've seen an accident after commenting on the angle. They lost the bumper.
|
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 11, 2012 23:21:54 GMT -5
If the BUMPER rating, not the truck towing capacity, is up to the task, fine. They are often NOT the same. I am not sure in your case, don't know the vehicle. If you are modifying the bumper for reinforcement that tells me it is not meant for the towing job. I also think safety chains that long, while better than no chains, are not ideal. If they are long enough that the tonque can go under the truck, with the trailer/propane tanks possibly hitting the truck's bumper that is not good obviously. It'd be hard enough to control a rig with the trailer on safety chains only let alone if it the trailer is ramming you from behind. I strongly recommend getting a professional opinion. If that agrees with your position I will gladly defer to the pro. www.hitchinfo.com/index.cfm?event=viewpage&contentpieceid=5145 |
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 11, 2012 23:26:19 GMT -5
|
|
|
|
Post by universalexports on Mar 12, 2012 10:46:08 GMT -5
yeah, but that is just what someone posted on a forum, from the GM web site, and my book in the glove compartment, my truck a 2010 model, 2 wheel drive single cab with the bigger 3.7 motor, and auto transmission, it states it can tow 4,000 lbs with a max tongue weight of 500 lbs.
the post on that forum also states they up'd the towing capacity in 2008
according to my book the 4 cylinder Manuel transmission truck can only tow 2,400 pounds for the 2010 model, so I guess motor size matters as well.
and the 4 cylinder manuel transmission crew cab and 4wd regular cabs can only tow 2,100 pounds.
while the crew cab or extended cab with 5.3 v8 can tow 6,000 pounds.
|
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 12, 2012 19:06:55 GMT -5
Maybe I am not being clear. The truck has a tow rating as stated in your manual. That PRESUMES a properly installed frame mounted hitch unless otherwise specified in my experience. The BUMPER is not the same unless so stated.
Does your manual specifically indicate the bumper can handle 5000/500?
|
|
vikx
3K Post Member
Posts: 3,556
|
Post by vikx on Mar 13, 2012 1:47:02 GMT -5
Universal, we are only trying to help. Experience is sometimes worth listening to. A Deluxe is a big trailer for a single axle. Please do not take any chances with you and yours, or others on the road.
|
|
|
|
Post by dennilane on Mar 13, 2012 3:07:23 GMT -5
Well, hell. This guy probably thought it was a good idea at the time also.   lol. Just teasing!  |
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Mar 13, 2012 7:07:45 GMT -5
The photo is from our first trip out with our camper some years back. The truck was a 4-cyl 5-sp Nissan. I put on a rig very similar to the one you are considering using, attached to the bumper. We made one trip, and I ended up buying a frame-mount . We never had the chance to take the camper out again on that frame mount...Thinking back to that trip gives me great pause now... no trailer brakes, no sway control. Just didn't know any better. I have been driving a dump truck with a pup trailer for about 11 years now, and even though the setup is an entirely different game (because 34 tons of stone does not care where it lands), I have seen several different situations on the road that would lead me to want to protect myself, my equipment, and people around me in any way I can. Last week, I was following a cargo trailer that came unhooked at 60+mph on the expressway. The sway was a full lane width either side, and anyone within striking distance would not have stood a chance. Fortunately the driver wrestled it to the side without involving anyone else. When I passed the front of the trailer was wedged against the bumper, jack bent and broken, and I am not sure how many lumps were in shorts in the cab.  I find that sometimes I am not the idiot. I've had people race to pass my rig only to have to stop quickly to turn left, and wait for oncoming traffic to do so. I gave up counting how many times I've had my heart in my throat, praying this won't be the day someone dies under my truck, screaming obscene names and questioning peoples' lineage all at the same time. I know that bumper towing works. And the math may add up alright. Personally, I would not want to beat up the bumper on the Colorado, nor would I risk the Shasta for a couple hundred bucks in towing equipment. (Might think about a friction sway bar or something of the sort as well.) I suppose this is getting to be more than .02 cents' worth. But as was already stated, just trying to help...  |
|
|
|
Post by universalexports on Mar 13, 2012 10:54:05 GMT -5
Fine, Fine ! FINE!!!
OK I give, i'll get a frame mounted kit just for piece of mind,
I still think what I posted would be fine for my camper baring any accidents, however
I pull more than just the camper quite often, I just recently pulled a friends 2001 Dodge avenger, (or some small 4 door dodge car not even sure what it was). home for her on my trailer, lucklyly didnt have an issue.
but I seem to end up hauling cars and junk alot, so a frame mounted hitch would for sure let me know I can pull whatever I want. so you win, thanks
one thing, I am going to find one for my specific truck, I bought a cheap generec one size fits all receiver hitch from autozone several years back, and it was a PITA to put on, I had to drill holes, cut pieces, bolt stuff together etc.
|
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 13, 2012 14:01:43 GMT -5
I wasn't trying to 'win'; I apologize if I came across too aggressive or whatever. I am not an expert, just sharing my education and experience. I do invite you to dig into the specification side of what you wanted to do, perhaps I could learn something. Either way, I wish you much success.
|
|
|
|
Post by universalexports on Mar 13, 2012 18:42:17 GMT -5
I really dont have any knowledge to share, I ran into a whole lot of 'I dont knows" in my search, and contradicting information, my truck manual says it can haul 4,000 lbs with a "weight carrying hitch", not a "weight distributing hitch" which is different. WEIGHT CARRYING HITCH IS "a weight carrying hitch is a simple ball and socket hitch. It can handle only small- to medium-sized loads and is one of the simplest hitches on the market. These hitches can be used even on small cars". but nothing I can find says "in the bumper" or "with a receiver hitch" no mention of the bumper at all, better safe than sorry since I cant find any solid info. and after a second look at my bumper, it does say 1,000 pound tow and 200 tongue weight in super small letters in the rubber mat on my bumper. again, they changed the tow capacity in 2008, is the rubber mat a left over from previous years? is the bumper still only rated to 200lbs?  again only sketchy info was found.  |
|
Bob
250 Post Member
Pictures are still on my blog: thisoldcamper.com
Posts: 375
|
Post by Bob on Mar 13, 2012 20:17:13 GMT -5
|
|
|
|
Post by dennilane on Mar 13, 2012 22:14:43 GMT -5
|
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 13, 2012 23:13:31 GMT -5
I really dont have any knowledge to share, I ran into a whole lot of 'I dont knows" in my search, and contradicting information, my truck manual says it can haul 4,000 lbs with a "weight carrying hitch", not a "weight distributing hitch" which is different. WEIGHT CARRYING HITCH IS "a weight carrying hitch is a simple ball and socket hitch. It can handle only small- to medium-sized loads and is one of the simplest hitches on the market. These hitches can be used even on small cars". but nothing I can find says "in the bumper" or "with a receiver hitch" no mention of the bumper at all, better safe than sorry since I cant find any solid info. and after a second look at my bumper, it does say 1,000 pound tow and 200 tongue weight in super small letters in the rubber mat on my bumper. again, they changed the tow capacity in 2008, is the rubber mat a left over from previous years? is the bumper still only rated to 200lbs? again only sketchy info was found. The stamping on the bumper is the important data. Regardless if it is correct or not, this is what a court of law would use against you in the event the worst happened. A weight distributing system is one that uses spring loaded bars off of the trailer tongue to the hitch point to transfer tonhue weight forward to the front of the tow vehicle. Like this: static.ddmcdn.com/gif/towing-weight-distribution-1.jpgThis is a confusing thing for many people - there is a lot of mis-information out there. I appreciate that you are working through this. |
|
vikx
3K Post Member
Posts: 3,556
|
Post by vikx on Mar 14, 2012 1:42:53 GMT -5
Universal, thank you for this post. It it helps just ONE more person, it can save lives. That's what a friendly forum is all about; helping each other. I admire the fact that you listened, weighed the issues and made an informed decision.
|
|
KimB
New Member
The 'Invisible' Trailer
Posts: 48
|
Post by KimB on Mar 22, 2012 0:36:48 GMT -5
Consider me the ONE.
I was looking into something simuliar to use on my Bronco. My bumper hitch is high, but I am worried
about the back of my Airflyte. Also the top of the hitch crank(?) hits the bottom half of the spare tire.
(on a swing arm)
I'm going to err on the side of caution, and have another hitch put on.
Thanks!!!
|
|
vikx
3K Post Member
Posts: 3,556
|
Post by vikx on Mar 22, 2012 0:59:33 GMT -5
KimB, consider a short extension, no more than 12". It will really help your clearance issues. That's after you get the new hitch of course...
|
|
KimB
New Member
The 'Invisible' Trailer
Posts: 48
|
Post by KimB on Mar 22, 2012 9:02:59 GMT -5
Thanks Vikx, I plan to. All I need is about 3-4" for clearance.
|
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 22, 2012 9:31:13 GMT -5
A hitch extension can help for sure - but be cautious and know that it will multiply your tongue weight. If your Bronco springs are old or saggy you may need weight distribution bar set-up to keep your Bronco level with the trailer on.
If your Bronco is a short wheel base 2 door, I strongly recommend an anti-sway device be installed.
|
|
|
|
Post by kto17 on Mar 22, 2012 14:02:35 GMT -5
Kim B, most drop hitches move the hitch point or extend it back some. Try to get something with about 12 inches extension. Check harbor freight and northern tool. I have a 93 full size bronco with a 4" suspension lift and had the same issue. If you don't you will have problems when you drive into dips like uphill into a gas station etc.
I had to remove my spare tire and put it in the camper to get my Astrodome home!
|
|
KimB
New Member
The 'Invisible' Trailer
Posts: 48
|
Post by KimB on Mar 23, 2012 5:59:17 GMT -5
Thanks everyone. I've been checking into hitch installers in this area. I am going to look into a sway bar, also. I towed the camper, about a year ago, without any problems, except for the height of the hitch.
Camper belongd to PO at the time. Anyway, we didn't have any problems with control. Drove interstate,
and Blue Ridge Parkway, twisty, uphill, and downhill road. And had to put spare tire in back of the bronoc. BTW, my bumper is welded to the frame of my '95 Bronco.
The camper, now mine, has a reciever hitch on back, which I intend to put a cargo carrier on, eventually.
|
|
|
|
Post by universalexports on Mar 23, 2012 17:04:26 GMT -5
well I just picked up a NEW Reese 44593 receiver hitch for $141.97 on ebay, it has a 6000 tow 600 tongue weight for a weight carrying hitch, should be more than enough for anything I tow.
|
|
|
|
Post by Bow_Tied on Mar 23, 2012 21:33:52 GMT -5
nice, decent price
|
|
