Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver For 2002 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab
Question:
Read the FAQ Common Weight Distribution and Sway Control Questions but now Im more confused! I have a 2002 Dodge Dakota SLT V8 Quad Cab AWD and Im trying to maximize my towing capacity to get a new trailer. I initially had a grasshopper but sold it because my family grew and we need a bigger trailer! Any recommendations on hitches? We currently only have a bumper hitch with 2k max towing capacity and need an upgrade! Thank you for your time!
asked by: Leila
Helpful Expert Reply:
For your 2002 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab, I recommend the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver Class III - 2", # 75038. This hitch has a rating of 500 lbs tongue weight with is the amount of weight you can apply to the hitch itself and a towing weight of 5000 lbs. I've attached an article on determining tongue weight.
Because you have used a bumper pull to this point, you will need to get a ballmount, pin and clip. I recommend the Rapid Hitch Adjustable Aluminum Ball Mount Kit - 2 Zinc Balls - 5-1/2" Drop, 6-1/2" Rise, Item # AM3411. This will allow you to tow your trailer level and will give you a 2 inch and a 1-7/8 inch option for hitch ball size to match your trailer coupler. I recommend using the Andersen Trailer Hitch Lock and Adjustment Pin Lock Set - EZ Hitch and EZ HD Ball Mounts - Stainless, # AM3493, to secure your hitch ball and ball mount to your vehicle.
If you use a weight distibution system, that will increase your total towing capacity to 8,000 lbs or whatever your manual states. I can help you find a system that will meet your needs when you get a trailer to match your vehicle capacity.
I tried to look up your owners manual but couldn't find it online. Often the maximum capacity of the aftermarket hitch is greater than the vehicle capacity, so I highly recommend you check your owners manual and use the lesser rating as the maximum rating for towing.
If you need to upgrade your wiring for a trailer with brakes, I recommend the # ETBC7 and the # 90195 brake controller.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Andersen Trailer Hitch Lock and Adjustment Pin Lock Set - EZ Hitch and EZ HD Ball Mounts - Stainless
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Standard Pin Lock
- Keyed Unique
- Stainless Steel
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- Flush Pin
- 3-5/16 Inch Span
- Andersen
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 500 lbs TW
- 5000 lbs GTW
- 8000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 800 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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