OEM Hitch Receiver & WDH

[jola7]

Hello, I have a 2008 V6 4wd, tow capacity of 5k & tongue of 500lbs,

I want to tow a trailmanor 2720 -GVWR of 4200 & tongue max of 440 (approx).

My owners manual says I cannot install a weight distribution hitch onto the OEM hitch receiver.

Does anyone know anything about this, because I am reading a lot of conflicting information.

see attached pics.

Thank you,
Jola7

 

[ArthurKotb]

That doesn't appear to be a frame hitch, just a standard bumper style hitch, like they had on the 2003 models. The warning means that if you put a weight distributing hitch on it the hitch will damage the receiver, which isn't designed for one of those. On my 2004 there is a tubular hitch that curves around to the rear frame. I'm rated for 7,000 lbs. towing, 700 tongue weight.

If you're not exceeding the tow rate, why are you wanting a frame hitch? I know it will level out your rig. Have you hooked up the trailer to see what it looks like? Is it level?

 

[Bluesky 07]

That doesn't appear to be a frame hitch, just a standard bumper style hitch, like they had on the 2003 models. The warning means that if you put a weight distributing hitch on it the hitch will damage the receiver, which isn't designed for one of those. On my 2004 there is a tubular hitch that curves around to the rear frame. I'm rated for 7,000 lbs. towing, 700 tongue weight.

If you're not exceeding the tow rate, why are you wanting a frame hitch? I know it will level out your rig. Have you hooked up the trailer to see what it looks like? Is it level?

This is the difference between the V8 & V6, which came with the receiver bolted to the frame crosspiece only. A V6 can be retrofitted with the V8 type of hitch.

 

[jola7]

Thanks for the info.

 

[jola7]

Thanks, I have no intention of exceeding the weight rating & I have not tried the trailer yet, because I'm shopping for a trailer.
Leveling seems like it would make for a safer more comfortable ride, but what do I know.
Also, is your tubular hitch receiver OEM or after market? I may have to purchase a receiver if I want a WD hitch.

Thanks again

 

[ArthurKotb]

I always get the towing package. It wasn't standard then and I don't know if it is now. With the V8 towing package (at least in 2004) you got the tubular frame hitch, 7-pin connector near the receiver, larger battery, high capacity alternator and transmission cooler. There may be others, I don't recall them.

A frame hitch transfers weight to be more forward and not just on the tail. It also has stronger construction, allowing for a WDH-Weight Distributing Hitch.

I use an Equalizer WDH hitch. A WDH transfers some of the weight to the front axle and puts some back on the trailer. When the Equalizer is set up correctly your rig sits pretty level.

This is my Airstream and tandem kayak on the roof of the T4R. It sits level and rides very well. The X-REAS shocks are great for handling. Tubular frame hitch also