Recommendation on a Trailer Hitch that will Fit a 1997 Chevrolet S-10 w/ Sportside Non-Towing Bumper

Question:

I have a 1997 s10 stepside pickup. Im not sure of the bumper I have but theres no place for a ball. Idk if its the factory roll pan bumper or the non towing bumper. I need a hitch for it. Any way to tell which one it is

asked by: Kelly R

Expert Reply:

From the picture of your 1997 S-10 that you sent me, we determined that you have the sportside with non-towing bumper model S-10.

The Draw-Tite Max Frame Hitch, # 75085, is the confirmed hitch that will fit the S-10 with the sportside bed. The Draw-Tite hitch is a Class III rated hitch with a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs and a towing capacity of 3,500.

If you are planning to tow a trailer with your S-10, I recommend the T-One Wiring Harness, # HM41115. The T-One harness will allow to connect a trailer 4-flat pole connector to your truck to run the trailer lights. This harness will connect using OEM plugs and will not need to be hardwired into your trucks electrical system. I have included an installation video of this harness being installed on a 1993 Chevrolet S-10 for you to review. The installation will be very similar on your 1997 S-10.

I also recommend the etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2 Inch Hitches, # 989900. This kit will include two ball mounts that will fit the Draw-Tite hitch. One ball mount has a 3/4 inch rise and a 2 inch drop., while the other ball mount has a2-3/4 inch rise and a 4 inch drop. The kit will also include a 2 inch and 1-7/8 inch trailer ball.

If the ball mount kit does not have the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, use the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.