Recommendation for a Trailer Hitch to Fit a 1986 GMC 1500 Truck

Updated 12/12/2016 | Published 12/10/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(187)

$215.94

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

(8)

$275.05

Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(51)

$25.59

Question:

Looking for a trailer hitch for a 1986 GMC 1500 1/2 ton to pull a camper trailer What suggestions do you have ? Thanks

asked by: Lynn

Expert Reply:

For the 1986 GMC 1500 1/2 ton pickup, we carry a couple of different hitches depending on the bed length and bumper style that of your truck.

If you have the 6 foot bed with the standard or step bumper you will need the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"# e88AR. This hitch has a 10,000 lbs towing capacity with 1000 lbs tongue weight capacity.

If you have a 8 foot bed with standard or step bumper you can use the same Draw-Tite hitch # 41947. You do not need the spacers when installing the hitch. However, I recommend the the Curt Trailer Hitch # 13028 over the Draw-Tite for two reasons on the 8 foot bed. The Curt hitch is little more cost efficient and the Curt hitch, at 6,000 lbs and 600 lbs, also has a larger towing and tongue weight capacity than the Draw-Tite hitch.

There is a third option if your 1986 GMC 1500 has a 8 foot bed with the deep drop bumper. The Draw-Tite Max E-Loader Hitch # 41504 is designed to fit 1986 GMC trucks with heavy-duty suspensions and the deep drop bumper. The previous hitches are not rated to fit the heavy-duty suspension models of the 1986 GMC.

I also recommend getting a Wiring Harness # HM41115. The wiring harness will directly connect to existing wiring plugs. The harness will allow you to wire a 4-flat connector to connect to the light on the trailer you want to tow.