QUICK TIP
BUMPER PULL HITCHES - Frame mounted hitches have weight ratings.Tow vehicles have towing capacities. They are not related. Not identifying hitch ratings may cause your hitch to fail. Here’s what you need to know:
There are two ratings on all frame mounted hitches: weight carrying and weight distribution. - Weight Carrying Ratings apply when using a ball and ball mount. It states the tow rating and tongue rating.
- Weight Distribution ratings apply when using a Weight Distribution System (often mistakenly called sway bars). It states the tow rating and the tongue rating.
- Attach the breakaway brake cord to the frame mounted hitch – never attach to the ball or safety chains.
- The ratings are listed on a sticker located on the hitch.
- A tow vehicle rated to tow 8000 lbs. May likely have a 5000 lb. Weight Carrying Hitch. Use a Weight Distribution System and the rating will most likely be 10000 lbs.
- A loaded two horse dressing room bumper may weigh up to 6500 lbs. – 1500 lbs. over the Weight Carrying Rating. The hitch will eventually fail. Options: replace the hitch or use a Weight Distribution System.
- A weight distribution system does not reduce sway. The primary purpose is to lighten/distribute the tongue weight to eliminate the front of the tow vehicle from raising. The longer and heavier the tow vehicle the less likely this will happen. Using a weight distribution system increases the hitch rating.
- Never use a ball mounted on a bumper.
- Always attach safety chains to frame mounted hitch. Cross them.
- All hitches have break-away brake system operated by a battery. Keep battery charged. Attach break-away cord to hitch, not to ball mount.
- Raise jack and/or remove jack foot before towing.
- Ensure ball mount and/or weight distribution system is secured by a pin inserted into the hitch.
- Check ball mount nut that fastens ball to ball mount.
- The trailer has to be level. If not, change Weight Carrying hitch or adjust Weight Distribution ball mount or adjust coupler, if adjustable.
