Hitch for a 2002 Thomas School Bus SafeTLiner HDX With Rear Engine

Updated 03/08/2021 | Published 03/02/2021

Question:

I have a 2002 Thomas School bus, SafeTLiner HDX, Rear Engine. I want to add a trailer hitch and have access to the frame rails where the tow hooks are attached. Questions: Do you know of a hitch which will fit to the bus? What information could I provide to help a hitch? Help and Input are appreciated.

asked by: Chris E

Expert Reply:

There is a way for you to add a trailer hitch to your 2002 Thomas Saf-T-Liner bus. Although there are none mounted vertically onto the frame, they will use brackets to mount to the frame which can be bolted or welded on.

What you need is the Draw-Tite Ultra Frame Service Body Trailer Hitch Cross Tube # 41990 so long as your bus has a frame which is up to 44" wide, because that is the length of this cross-tube.

You will then use either the 7" Bracket Kit or 16" Bracket Kit. To determine which bracket kit you need, measure from the top of the frame on your bus to the bottom of the bumper. If you need less than 5-9/16" to clear the bumper you will use 7" brackets # 4907; if you need less than 14-3/8" you will use the 16" brackets # 4916.

I would carefully consider where you will mount the crossbar in relation to the rear engine and other components. This is a generic hitch that is used on many commercial style vehicles. We have not test fitted it to any school buses.

expert reply by: Les D