What kind of hitch is this?

[brearlymason]

Does anyone have any information on this hitch? I am in the process of buying this van and it has this crazy hitch on it. I want to tow my boat (about 4,000 #'s total). Is it safe to do so with this hitch? Does anyone have information on this setup? Can I lock it out, or would I want to?

Thanks,
Brearly Mason

[Jarrod B]

that is a swing hitch.

like this
Towing World Official Website


now imo i would remove it and put a traditional one on. but thats me.

[brearlymason]

Really? This hitch doesn't "swing" like the link you posted, but rotates from side to side. It is very, very heavy duty and is bolted on with 16 bolts through the frame. It looks like it is marked for 10,000 lbs, but its not clear. Why would someone use this style hitch over a regular setup?

[Jarrod B]

well that one does swing left to right due to the bent I beam under the bumper.

[Austin G]

Originally Posted by brearlymason

Really? This hitch doesn't "swing" like the link you posted, but rotates from side to side. It is very, very heavy duty and is bolted on with 16 bolts through the frame. It looks like it is marked for 10,000 lbs, but its not clear. Why would someone use this style hitch over a regular setup?

Probably to make sharper turns?

[colo_dually]

If it rotates, most likely its for manuverability at slow speeds, and initial hook up. Highly doubt it would handle 10K (look at the safety chain loops), even if it is marked for it. Occasionally you see hitches fabricated on, that may have decent ratings when they leave the factory. Regardless of what and who made it, once you get the van, get rid of the blasted thing. Even with only a 4K load, its better to play it safe.

[brearlymason]

I finally found it...

PullRite has a SAFER, STRONGER, BETTER designed hitch for you

Thanks!