How Can the Ranch Hitch Be Attached to a Pin Box

Updated 06/19/2012 | Published 06/15/2012

Question:

Do I have to weld or bolt the ranch hitch am3100 to pin box, or will it be ok without.

asked by: Bob

Expert Reply:

The Andersen Rapid Hitch # AM3100 that you referenced can be installed with either 4 grade 8 bolts or with 4 1-inch tack welds placed by a certified welder.

Here is the step from the instructions that is about the attachment of the the unit to the pin box:

There are eight holes drilled in the Ranch Hitch Adapter Base, but only four need to be used. You will be responsible to choose which 4 holes will be used to accept the Grade 8 Bolts; try to evenly spread the load as much as possible. Take care to locate the bolts where they will not interfere with any gusseting that might be inside the pinbox. Drill the four holes. Insert the bolts into each hole and secure with a lock washer and nut. Some pin boxes are enclosed and-cannot be accessed for placement for the washers and nuts. In this case, or in any other application, the Grade 8 Bolts can be replaced by 4
one-inch tack welds placed by a certifled welder. (NOTE: drilling and tapping the pin box metal to accept.the grade 8 bolts will not offer sufficient strength and is not acceptable.)

expert reply by: Jameson C