High-Low Hitch Adapter Compatibility with Winch on 1999 Tahoe with Front Hitch Receiver

Question:

Would this work to mount my cradle style smittybilt 9.5 winch? The dimensions are perfect, just want to make sure it will be safe to pull my vehicle out of snow or mud. Note: TAHOE is not modified and doesnt do any hardcore mudding or off roading.

asked by: Chaz

Expert Reply:

The Blue Ox High-Low Adapter for Tow Bars - 2" Hitches - 10" Rise/Drop - 11-1/2" Long # BX88132 is designed for use with a tow bar. Using a winch would put additional torque on the adapter and the receiver that it isn't rated for or warrantied for. It would work fine for a 5,000 lb line pull that was fairly straight from the receiver. Beyond that it would work, but you would want to consider the torque on your hitch.

It may be a better option to simply use a plate like the Curt Trailer Hitch Electric Winch Mount Plate # C31010 without an adapter to give you better capacity if it is a large winch and stay within the warranty of your hitch receiver. The winch using a roller fairing or a hawse fairlead will work well even with the difference in angle.

expert reply by: Jason S