Recommended Trailer Hitch For Ram 1500 With Factory Installed Crossmember

Question:

Well the truck is brand new and there is a factory hitch on it but no receiver. So could I still use the draw-tite hitch.

asked by: Shawn H

Expert Reply:

The Draw Tite hitch part # 41948 is a confirmed fit for the 2017 Ram 1500. You will need to remove the factory hitch and install the Draw-Tite hitch. The maximum tongue weight is up to 1,500 lbs and the maximum gross trailer weight is up to 12,000 lbs.

Another option is to use Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75662. This receiver easily bolts on to your frame and does not require you to remove the factory crossmember. The maximum tongue weight is up to 600 lbs and the maximum gross trailer weight is up to 6,000 lbs. There are access holes that may need to be enlarged by drilling, filing, or with a rotary tool. This product is for vehicles with factory installed step bumpers only.

A 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector # 118384 is needed to start your wiring. The purpose of this item is to control and allow the basic hookup of the three lighting functions (running, turn, and brake lights) plus one pin is provided for a ground wire. Most standard light duty trailers will use a 4-pole flat connector.

If the trailer has a 7-way connector then start with the 4-way connector and convert it to a 7-way using the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller 7-Way # ETBC7. This kit includes everything you need to install an electric trailer brake controller and 7-way connector.

For a brake controller, the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 is one of our most popular items. This proportional brake controller will activate your trailer brakes in a proportion to your vehicle's braking action. It'll automatically adjust your trailer's braking based on the deceleration of the tow vehicle and it activates immediately so there's no pausing like with your time delay brake controllers. It does have an automatic leveling ability because there's an internal sensor on the inside which will detect deceleration even if the controller is not mounted flat.

The etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches 7,500 lbs # 989900 is an excellent product to consider. It includes two ball mounts, two hitch balls and pin & clips. If your hitch or trailer has a different towing capacity, if you contact me back, I can make tailored recommendations according to those specifications.