How to Determine Towing Capacity for a Hitch on a 2005 Dodge Dakota 2WD Quad Cab
Updated 05/20/2011 | Published 05/18/2011
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Question:
I have a 2005 Dodge Dakota 2WD Quad Cab. This receiver PN 13229 bolts directly to the frame. The truck bumper indicates a vehicle tow capacity of 2000 lbs/200lb torgue if a hitch ball is attached to the OEM bumper/hitch frame. The tow ball bolts into the same hitch frame that your receiver bolts on to. Why would the receiver have higher towing capacity than the hitch ball when they are both atttached to the same frame member?.
asked by: Danny
Expert Reply:
The Curt Trailer Hitch, item # 13229, is designed and tested for fit and capacity, likewise the Dodge Dakota and Mitsubishi Raider have their own towing capacity ratings for the vehicle and bumper. In your case the vehicle attachment point is rated for 2,000 pounds capacity so that will be the maximum rating for your vehicle with the bumper mounted option. You always have to go by the lowest rated item in the towing system for maximum capacity.
If you need more capacity than the bumper mounted hitch will allow, I would recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch, # 13230, which mounts to the vehicle frame. You will need to check the gross towing capacity of your vehicle in the owners manual to determine the maximum capacity of the vehicle with this hitch installed and go with the lowest rated item, the vehicle capacity or hitch capacity.
Some items you may want to consider to complete your Class III towing setup are listed below.
Wiring # 118323
Drawbar # D-4
Hitch Pin and Clip, # PC3
Hitch Ball # 19260 or # 19247
Hitch Lock # e98880
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class III
- 500 lbs TW
- 5000 lbs GTW
- 5500 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 550 lbs WD TW
- No Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
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