Recommended Trailer Hitch for Laredo Trailer with Weld-On Extension

Updated 08/10/2017 | Published 08/09/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Adjustable Width Trailer Hitch Receiver for RVs, 22" to 72" Wide

(602)

$520.35

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(683)

$18.45

Curt RV Bumper 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver

(837)

$121.70

Question:

Hi, I have a Laredo 342RD and wanted to install this hitch. My bumper is welded to a box frame which is welded to the I-Beam frame of the unit. I would assume attaching this to the I-Beam would be more sturdy/reliable. However, the I-Beam is not flush with the bumper about 4inch away and the box frame is 4inch high. The hitch receiver only drops 3inch from the holding bracket and will be blocked by my 4x4 bumper. Can I attach this to the box frame that is welded to the I-Beam? Is that a safe option? The box frame is 15 inches long. Ive included a picture for reference My alternative plan would be to purchase the Sturdy Struts and the Curt Receiver that attaches to the 4x4 bumper. I literally jumped up and down on the bumper and nothing happened weigh 205lbs. Please advise.

asked by: Darin K

Expert Reply:

Weld-on extensions like what you have with the box frame on your Laredo 342RD are not generally the best place to install a trailer hitch such as the Curt # 13703 that you referenced. Doing this will essentially reduce the hitch to an unknown capacity, as it is designed to attach directly to the frame of the RV.

If you do in fact have a 4 inch x 4 inch square channel bumper on the trailer, a better option will be to install the Curt RV Bumper 2 Inch Trailer Hitch # E-100 that you also mentioned. This will simply bolt onto the bumper to provide a 2 inch receiver opening for hitch-mounted accessories. Note that Curt also requires the use of stabilizing straps like # 18050 for non-trailer loads such as bike racks and cargo carriers.

I do recommend checking with the trailer manufacturer to see if they can provide you with the bumper capacity on the trailer. The fact that nothing happened when jumping up and down on it is a promising sign, but I suggest verifying its actual capacity as well.

I have included an installation video on this product so you can see exactly how it installs and looks when mounted.

expert reply by: Chris R