Can you Overload a Front Mount Hitch on a 2007 Ford Van E-450 RV Cutaway

Question:

Is there a higher tongue weight capacity front hitch receiver available? According to the specs the tongue weight capacity on this item is 500 pounds. I am wanting to use it for a motorcycle carrier on the front of my class C motor home as I tow a boat simultaneously. The motorcycle tips the scales at about 550 pounds. The heavy duty carrier itself weighs over a 100 pounds, thus overloading tongue weight capacity of the hitch by at least 150 pounds. Would I be able to get away with the extra weight? Or would I be risking hitch failure by over loading it? Thanks!

asked by: Dean B

Expert Reply:

The Curt Front Mount Trailer Hitch, part # 33055, is in fact the highest tongue weight capacity available for your 2007 Ford Van E-450 RV Cutaway.

As for loading the hitch over its tongue weight capacity, that is something that I do not recommend doing. One problem you would have with that is, as you said, the high possibility of hitch failure (whether the hitch breaks, bend, or is ripped from its bolts).

Another possible problem is tipping or sagging your motorhome in the front. If your vehicle is not rated for that much weight (you'd need to check your owner's manual for that), you run a high risk of tipping or damaging other components in the front.

expert reply by: Kef G