Are All RV Hitches for a 2004 Fleetwood Tioga Rated for 3,500 lbs?

Question:

I have a 2004 Ford E450 Tioga 31W. I have included pics of what is currently on there. Do all receivers with 2inch opening and 5/8inch pins size classed as 5000lbs? I think mine is just labeled wrong forced from manufacturer If not then Im hoping this Curt will work, but looking at the installation for all of your hitches they are to be installed on the bottom of the frame. As you will see in my pics, the plate was fabricated and welded to the inside and receiver bolt to that plate. So what do you suggest? Also, look at what is on there because I honestly believe that hitch receiver is already a 5000lb hitch and labeled wrong. Doesnt look Class II to me. Thanks for your help

asked by: Rick B

Helpful Expert Reply:

Thanks for the pictures! 2" hitches do not all have a 5,000 lbs capacity. The capacity varies by vehicle. That is an old Reese 06497 hitch and the sticker is correct. It does indeed top out at 3,500 lbs. It looks like this hitch came on all of the Tioga's that year because they all have the same listed capacity.

The frame on a 2004 Ford E-450 is right around 39" wide. The Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver item # C13702 you were looking at will fit your Fleetwood Tioga. The hitch has a 5,000 lbs towing capacity and 500 lbs maximum tongue weight. I strongly recommend verifying your motorhomes towing capacity with your user manual or calling a Ford dealership and giving them your VIN before upgrading hitches. Sometimes when they use cutaways they extend the frames which lowers the towing capacity. This could be why yours only has a 3,500 lbs hitch installed.

expert reply by: Jerred H