Comparing Front Mount Receiver Hitches That Fit a 2015 Ram 2500 4X4 For Carrying a Winch

Question:

Putting a winch on the upper receiver mount on the front of a 2015 Ram 2500 4x4 looks really good, but I was leaning towards the lower mount. Will the winch on the 2” slide in cradle mount clear the bumper and work ok? I am actually installing an aftermarket bumper but it looks like fit should be less of an issue than the stock bumper. Just want to make sure the front receiver style winch will fit ok. It would be a 9000-12000# size winch. Thanks

asked by: Larry

Expert Reply:

The Curt Front Mount Trailer Hitch Receiver # C31015 does sit very far behind and below the factory bumper. When we installed it on a 2015 Ram 2500 like yours in our shop the hitch receiver pin sat 10" behind the leading front edge of the bumper. Since there are several different winches and mounts available and without knowing how the new bumper will change that 10" measurement it is hard to know exactly what will fit until the new bumper is installed. My biggest concern with this comes down to ground clearance as the bottom of the receiver will sit approximately 12" from the ground. With trays not having a rise built in this would put the winch very low to the ground.

The Draw-Tite Front Mount Trailer Hitch Receiver # 65063 receiver pin hole sits nearly flush with the front bumper. With it sitting much higher on the bumper it will make operating the winch much easier. You will also have less ground clearance issues in the event that you plan on leaving the winch attached to the front mount.

I have linked installation videos for both but be sure to check with the aftermarket bumper manufacturer if there are going to be any fitment issues with the mounting points or receiver.

expert reply by: Bud M