Trailer Hitch Recommendations for a 2001 Ford Ranger Flareside

Question:

I recently bough a Reese Trailer Hitch, Part # 37042 it says it fits all 2001 Ford Rangers. I was reading the installation directions and it said that this hitch would not fit a Flareside. This happens to be the vehicle I want to install the hitch on. I thought it could be retrofitted to work but that was not so. I took it back to the store and they didnt have any idea what I needed. I plan on ordering one fro the internet but I do not want to get something that will not work. What hitch do I need for the 2001 Ford Ranger Flareside? I do not want one that needs drilling if I can avoid it.

asked by: Ivan B

Expert Reply:

The only information I could find on a hitch number 37042 is that it fits the Ford Escape. For a true Ford Ranger hitch, I have linked you to the hitches that will fit. I know that the Hidden Hitch trailer hitch, # 70181, will fit because we have a video of it being installed on a flareside model, see link.

I also now that # 87161 will fit because we have a video of it as well which I have linked for you. I have also included links to the installation instructions for these hitches.

If you plan on doing some towing, I recommend the etrailer ball mount kit # 989900, which comes with 2 ball mounts, 2 balls, a hitch pin with clip, and a carrying bag. For trailer wiring, use # 118344. I have included a link to the wiring instructions as well.

expert reply by: Michael H