Question Was Asked By - Les B

Trailer Hitch and Wiring Harness for Light Towing with 2009 Chevy Silverado 1500

Question:

I have a 2009 Chevy silverado 1500 WT with a regular cab and a 6 1/2 foot bed. I want to haul a small trailer with an ATV on it. Total weight of both would be 1500 pounds, or less. Can I use just a ball mounted directly to the bumper? If not, is there a small hitch that just screws in the two holes on the underside of the bumper for light hauling? If you could give me your part number on whatever would work Id appreciate it. Also could you give me the part # on the wiring harness for this 2009 truck. Thanks

asked by: Les B

Expert Reply:

I would always recommend using a hitch instead of a bumper mount. A bumper mount is not adjustable and getting the trailer level is a big part of towing safely, additionally a hitch is a stronger and more secure method. We have a small hitch, that installs using 6 holes already in the truck frame and does not require any drilling. Average mechanical ability should be sufficient to install it in about a half hour. The hitch is Hidden Hitch part # 87430 and it includes all the hardware you will need to install the hitch.

As far as wiring, your truck is pre-wired for a 7 way connector and has a receptacle in place to add part # PK11916. Since your trailer will be fairly small, it will probably have a 4 Way connector so you would need an adapter like part # TC-701. This method would be the easiest, cleanest looking method. If you did not want the additional adapter and do not mind drilling your bumper you can use part # 30955 that has both the 7 and 4 way built in.

expert reply by: Patrick B

Products Referenced in This Question

Replacement Multi-Tow 7-Way and 4-Way Trailer Connectors for Ford, GM Trucks with Factory 7 Way