Hitch fit for 1997 Ford F-250 With Deep Drop Bumper

Question:

1997 F-250 heavy duty. Aftermarket bumper. What is the vertical from the point of bolting to the frame to the top of the hitch receiver and also to the bottom of the hitch receiver? Take a look at the diagram and photo. I am willing to move license plate and cut a hole in the bumper at that location to allow the hitch to go through it, if that is where it would come out. But if I knew the vertical on the hitch, I could figure out exactly where it would go. I would replace the bumper but it is welded on! Thanks

asked by: Chad P

Expert Reply:

The drop of the B & W Class V # BWHDRH25198 is 7-3/8 inches. That represents the distance from the underside of the frame member where the hitch mounts to the top of the receiver tube. If that isn't sufficient to clear your bumper, the Curt Class V # C15511 has an 8 inch drop. The bottom of the receiver tube would be 3 inches lower than that for either hitch.

According to the diagram you kindly provided, you need a drop of at least 6-1/2 inches, so either of the two hitches WILL clear the underside of your bumper and wouldn't require cutting anything up.

I've linked to an installation video for the hitch.

expert reply by: Mike L