Trailer Hitch Fit for 1997 Ford F-350 with 10-Inch Deep Drop Bumper

Updated 05/19/2016 | Published 05/15/2016

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2"

(94)

$329.00

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

(183)

$30.38

Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(8)

$275.05

Curt Heavy Duty Forged Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3" Rise - 4" Drop - 17,000 lbs

(801)

$64.94

Question:

I have been searching for a bolt on receiver for my 1997 F350 with the 10inch bumper. Nearly a decade ago when I brought it into a shop to have one installed, they said that Ford changed the frame on the later 1997 F350s and that instead of $200 for a bolt on receiver, they were going to charge me $700. Needless to say I walked right out the door. I am wondering if you know anything about this change in the frame geometry? In the installation video I watched on your website, it looks like the frame rails are more or less parallel to the ground across almost the entire bed. On my truck, the frame has an upward curve in it right near the back of the leaf springs see pictures. I measured the distance between the frame rails, and that comes out to 34inch on the inside of the rails and 37.5inch from outside to outside of the rails. I am totally lost on this one and need some help. Thanks.

asked by: Jacob

Expert Reply:

My contact at Draw-Tite advised that for your 1997 Ford F-350 with 10-Inch deep drop bumper the correct hitch fit is part # 41504. Along with it you will need Fastener Kit # 01685. My contact at Draw-Tite confirmed this hitch will fit your F-350's frame.

For a 4-pole wiring harness you can use part # 118316.

You'll also need a ball mount like # C45341, hitch ball and a pin/clip or lock. The linked article and product page will help you select the correct ball mount to keep your hitched trailer level. Our page for hitch balls is also linked.

expert reply by: Adam R