Does Spare Tire Have To Be Relocated When Installing Hitch On 1998 Chevrolet C/K Pickup

Updated 05/16/2016 | Published 05/12/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Ultra Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2"

(25)

$327.40

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(135)

$23.19

etrailer Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches - 7,500 lbs

(1375)

$86.63

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"

(195)

$251.20

Question:

Do these hitchs retain stock spare tire location? 1998 Chevrolet C/K Series Pickup Draw-Tite Ultra Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver Class IV - 2 Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch 41938 1998 Chevrolet C/K Series Pickup Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver Class IV - 2 Curt Trailer Hitch C14081 Thanks Jay

asked by: Jay S

Expert Reply:

I checked out the installation instructions for both of the trailer hitches you referenced for your 1998 Chevrolet CK pickup truck. Both of the hitch instructions do mention the spare tire.

For the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, part # 41938 the instructions say that you need to remove the spare tire and carrier from the vehicle. If the under-box tire storage is to be retained, the spare tire carrier will have to be relocated and/or modified after receiver is installed.

For the Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C14081, the spare needs to be removed and after installing the trailer hitch you need to reposition the spare tire slightly forward to clear the receiver hitch. Oversize spare tire may have to be relocated.

If you plan on doing some towing you might be interested in etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

If the ball mount kit does not include a ball mount with the right rise or drop to tow the trailer level, check out the link I have included that explains how to measure to choose a ball mount to tow the trailer level.

If you need a trailer connector on your truck I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector, part # 118315. This just plugs into the existing wiring on your truck located along the driver side frame rail.