Is Curt Class V Trailer Hitch Safe to Use on 2003 Chevy Avalanche Since it Doesn't Attach to Bumper
Question:
Hello, Im considering the C15324 for my 03 Avalanche because of the better towing / tongue weight capacity. The C15324 looks substantially heavier compared to the standard class3/4 hitches available, but my concern is that the design of the larger C15324 skips the bolts that would attach the original/manufacturers hitch to the bumper. It seems like it mightve reduced the capacity a bit by not attaching the hitch to the bumper. Can you guys give any technical reassurance on the design change? Just want to be as safe as possible! Thanks!
asked by: Aaron A
Expert Reply:
Your standard grade 5 half inch coarse threaded bolt has a clamping force of around 9,000 or more pound force and a 1/2 inch grade 5 coarse threaded bolt has a tensile strength of 120,000 pounds per square inch.
This means one 1/2 inch grade 5 coarse thread bolt has the potential shear strength of 72,000 pounds per square inch. There are 4 of these bolts plus 2 already on the 2003 Avalanche that will be reused to install hitch # C15324.
What all of this means is that the method and location of installation is carefully considered and the hardware used is rated much higher than the hitch capacity so it would be very safe!
Despite the capacity of the hitch (16K gross trailer weight (17K with weight distribution) and 2,400 pounds tongue weight) you will still need to go by the capacity of your 2003 Chevy Avalanche specified in the owners manual.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V XD - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class V
- 2400 lbs TW
- 16000 lbs GTW
- 17000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 2400 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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