Recommendation for Upgrading to 18K Trailer Hitch on 2006 Chevy Silverado

Question:

I want to step up to an 18,000 lb hitch on my truck, and stay in the 2” receiver because of all the misc 2” things I already have. I see that the 2 1/2” receivers have more tongue weight, though, do you sell adapters, and what do you think of those? I need it to mount up right under the bumper, to eliminate any more - I actually need rise to haul my 16k deckover skid trailer. What do you suggest? I would also like to mount my 7-plug in my bumper so it’s not hanging down and getting all beat up. Please advise, and thank you!

asked by: Doug A

Expert Reply:

Going to an 18,000 pound rated trailer hitch on your 2006 Chevy Silverado 3500 will indeed require you to switch to a 2-1/2 inch receiver. This is not a problem though because as you mentioned we have various adapters available such as the Curt # C45405 that will reduce this opening to 2 inches so you can continue to use your existing accessories. Because the sleeve slides into the hitch receiver it won't restrict the use of your accessories at all in terms of capacity or function and it will maintain your existing ground clearance so you can continue to use your ball mount with the needed rise for your trailer.

For the trailer hitch itself I recommend the Curt Class V # C15703 that features an 18,000 towing weight capacity, a 2,700 pound tongue weight limit, and is made right here in the USA. If your Silverado has the factory hitch it will need to be removed before installing this one. I have attached an installation video and the written instructions that you can check out as well.

To mount your existing 7-Way in the bumper of your Silverado you will just need to make a cut-out opening for the bracket and re-route the factory plug up to the opening so you can bolt the 7-Way into place. If you need a replacement 7-Way the Hopkins # 30955 will work perfectly for this application.

expert reply by: Chris R