Replacing OEM Hitch On 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 - Class IV

Question

Question:

Need to change my original hitch on my GMC Sierra 1500, 2011...witch one would be replacing the original...type III , type IV or type V ?...my need is to carried my T@b 400 trailer 3000 lbs and 300 lbs without WD...I was looking for 10000/1000 Thank you for your help

asked by: Benoit T

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

The factory hitch that came with your GMC Sierra 1500 was at least a Class III and possibly a class IV depending on what trim level you have. Looking at the available products as well as your specific application and towing needs, I recommend replacing your OEM hitch with the Curt Class IV Hitch # 14301 which has the 1000 lbs TW and 10000 lbs GTW you're looking for.

I would caution you to give more consideration to a weight distribution hitch instead of a pure bumper pull, based upon your trailer's weight and the weight of your Sierra. Any time you're pulling a trailer that's at least 50% or more of the towing vehicle's weight, you may encounter squat in the rear of the the truck's suspension, rise in the front of the truck's suspension, and considerable sway with your trailer when driving. Over time this is likely to cause suspension damage to your Sierra and potentially other problems as well. Your 3,000 lb trailer, while not a very long trailer, is likely at least 54% of the weight of your truck and perhaps as much as 67%, depending upon your Sierra's trim level. I've attached an article that further explains WD hitches, as well as when and why they might be necessary.

If you change your mind about using a WD hitch, I fully recommend the Curt MV Weight Distribution System # C17050 because it's a great entry-level system for smaller trailers such as your T@b 400, and the spring bars can be adjusted to accommodate the lighter demands of a 3,000 lbs. trailer on a 600/6K WD system.

expert reply by: Aaron A

1

Answer 1

On some years that Curt trailer hitch #13322 fits, there may be some trimming of the rear fascia for the hitch to fit properly. It is not necessary on all models but you will only know once you go to install the hitch. The area that would need to…

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Answer 2

It could be a tow package fuse on the vehicle. Use the owners manual to find the locations of fuses/relays related to the tow package wiring to check them and replace as needed. If the issue is not a fuse or relay then you can test the vehicle side…

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Answer 3

Most of the 2-5/16 inch hitch balls will use either a 1-inch diameter shank or 1-1/4 inch diameter shank. The nut size on a hitch ball with a 1-1/4 inch shank, like the Tow Ready 2-5/16 Inch Hitch Ball, part #19286, will use a 1-7/8 inch socket. A…

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Answer 4

As long as your 2007 GMC Sierra New Body has the standard rear bumper (see photo), I recommend using the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver part #14301. This is a direct bolt on hitch that will not require any cutting or drilling. You will also be able to…

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Answer 5

To remove the style of connector you have on your 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 you will need to access the back of the connector. You will probably need to lay under the rear bumper of your vehicle to access the back of the connector where you will need to…

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Answer 6

The holes are already in the frame of your 2003 Chevy Silverado 1500 for a trailer hitch receiver to be installed, which means you aren't going to have to do any drilling for installation. I recommend the etrailer.com Trailer Hitch Receiver…

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Answer 7

Part #14301 fits the following vehicles, 2007 New Body Style 1500 Chevrolet Silverado and 2008 1500 Chevrolet Silverado.

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Answer 8

The Curt Class IV 2 Inch Hitch #14301 does not bolt to the bumper of your 2008 Chevrolet Silverado. It will bolt to the frame rails of your vehicle. You will need to remove the spare tire to install the hitch, bolt the hitch to the frame rails, and…

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Answer 9

The best hitch I'd recommend for your 2011 Chevy Silverado is the Curt hitch part #14301 because it has great towing capacities at 10,000 lb trailer weight and because it has only the hitch tube that hangs below the rear bumper for a more…

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Answer 10

I did some checking and basically the cutout bumper is the regular factory bumper. The Curt hitch, #C15312, will fit up tighter and a little more recessed, apparently the same way the factory hitch does if it were installed. Some people like the…

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Answer 11

There's a chance the Curt hitch part #E-3S would fit your 2010 Chevy Silverado but since this is a universal style hitch that's never been fit tested on your truck we can't guarantee that. We do have hitches for your Silverado though that…

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Answer 12

I would be happy to help you set your 2005 GMC Sierra up to tow your trailer. With that low of a towing capacity I can safely assume you have a 1500. That is what my recommendations are going to be based on. Along with a weight distribution system…

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