Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver For 1997 Ford F-250 With Deep Drop Bumper

Question:

Good Afternoon, I have a 1997 F250 HD I am looking to install a much heavier hitch for. The installation shops I have called are advising I likely have the deep bumper and they do not carry and cannot order hitches that are compatible. They are recommending I reach out to a welding shop for a custom hitch. The welding shops are leery because the rear fuel cell is right above the spare tire, not to mention the cost is much higher. It appears you may potentially have a BandW or Curt hitch that may work with my truck. Just wanted to confirm. Ive added some pics for context. What measurements can I take on my truck to ensure the hitch Im ordering is compatible?

asked by: Justin W

Expert Reply:

Thanks for the pictures!

The trailer hitch receiver I recommend for your 1997 Ford F-250 HD Is the B&W Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2" # BWHDRH25198 which has a 7-3/8" drop which is measured from the bottom of the frame to the top of the receiver tube. Since in the picture you provided you measured about 5" from the bottom of the frame to the bottom of the bumper you will have plenty of clearance.

The # BWHDRH25198 has a 1600lb tongue weight rating and a 16000lb trailer weight rating but your F-250 may not so you will need to check the owner's manual of your truck to find its towing capacity and use the lowest rating between the hitch and vehicle.

For a heavy duty ball mount I recommend the B&W Heavy-Duty Ball Mount - 1" Rise, 2" Drop - 8-1/2" Long - 16,000 lbs # BWBMHD30010 and for a hitch ball you can use the 2-5/16" # BWHB94050 that also has a 16000lb rating.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.