Recommended Trailer Hitch Receiver for a 1989 Chevy K1500 Sportside Pickup  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The best way to tell if your 1989 Chevrolet K1500 is a Heavy-Duty (HD) or Light-Duty (LD) version would be to obtain your VIN and call the dealer as they would be able to tell you whether or not you have the HD or LD version. Another way to tell if your truck is an HD or LD would be to look at the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). If the GVWR of your truck is 5,600 lbs then you have the LD version but if your GVWR is 6,100 lbs then you have the HD version. This information can generally be found located on a sticker placed inside either the driver's door jamb or the passengers glove compartment.

I would agree with Draw-Tite that the Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 41524 or the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75099 would fit your truck and not require drilling. However, I cannot confirm that you will be able to retain the full size spare tire as this will vary from vehicle to vehicle. I recommend going with part # 41524 as this hitch has a higher weight capacity.

I have attached a review video of the j-pin stabilizer in addition to a sample installation video for you.

expert reply by: Conner L

0

Glenn

11/22/2017

I determined from the door sticker that my GVWR is 5600 pounds. That would indicate that I have the LD and not HD suspension. What is your suggestion for LD suspension models? Thanks again.

Conner L.

11/22/2017

I spoke to my contact at Draw-Tite and they were able to confirm that the Draw-Tite Max-E-Loader Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 41524 and the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 75099 will still work with the LD version of your 1989 Chevrolet C/K Series Pickup. The HD model requires a set of spacers to be used which is why there was some confusion on fitment. Either trailer hitch receiver will work for you and should still retain the use of a factory full size spare tire.