I am looking for a top quality class V hitch for my 2002, it does have the factory hitch there now but i am probably going to need to tow a 10k lb boat from wash. d.c. area to key west this summer andneed the extra security. I need the hitch to be rated as high as possible because I can't use a weight distributing hitch due to the trailer being a surge brake trailer. I would also like to have a mount for the trailer wire connector similar to the factory hitch. That seems to be where I run into problems with my search so far. do not care wether its a 2" or 2.5" reciever.

 

I got a Putnam. It has the highest ratings I have been able to find, even higher than the Reese Titan, for tongue weight and pull weight. They are also cheaper.

Chris

 

Does the putnam have the built in attatchment for the trailer wiring connector?

 

I have a Putnam hitch too! Excellent hitch and very low profile (you can bearly see it, compared to the original). The wiring connector needs to be ordered separately. You need to purchase the mount for the connector, as you will void the warranty if you drill the hitch. I think I paid under $140 all in!

Here's the link: www.putnamhitch.com

www.truckperformance.com has the best price I've found and they carry the accessories too!

Good luck!

 

No, it is a separate bracket that bolts around the receiver tube (you must order it separately from the receiver, for about 7 bucks). It does not mount sideways, like stock, but mounts facing the back. I actually like it better, easier access. I did find another bracket, not Putnam brand, that does mount sideways, like the stock one. It is attached by zip straps that wrap around the hitch tube.

Chris

 

Does that hitch require any drilling to mount it?

 

No drilling. It is a little weird mounting though. It utilizes a couple of holes in the frame that are way too large for the bolt that goes through them, but it uses washers over them. When I talk to Putnam tech support they said they have been using these holes since they introduced the second gen receiver, and have had no reports of failures.

I forgot, I have a page I made from pics when I installed it:
http://www.Stamey.Info/Truck/PutnamHitchInstall.htm

Chris