Recommended Trailer Hitch for Ford E-450 Box Truck

Updated 07/08/2025 | Published 02/09/2022

Question:

I have a 2002 e450 box van with a lift gate it is a 16ft box with van front. Is there a hitch option?

asked by: James M

Expert Reply:

I do have an option for you though there aren't custom fit hitches for box trucks. The frame is not really the issue but rather the body the up-fitter adds on which could hang down below the frame where the hitch mounts or actually use the holes in the frame for the hitch. Therefore, you will either need to drill or weld on one like the Draw-Tite Ultra Frame Service Body Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 41990-16 or part # 41990-07.

expert reply by: Conner L

Mike

7/8/2025

I'm looking for a trailer hitch for a 2009 E450 super duty. It's a shuttle bus. Do you have a recommendation? I don't mind drilling or welding.

Lazer S.

7/8/2025

@Mike If you don't mind doing a bit a welding, the Draw-Tite Ultra Frame Service Body Trailer Hitch Receiver part # 41990-16 Conner mentioned above will be the best option. It has higher capacities than your bus does and the 44" wide cross-tube should be wide enough, though I would measure the frame width just to make sure. The 2" receiver opening is also the most common so you will find all sorts of stuff that will fit it. What are you wanting to use a hitch on your shuttle bus for?

Mike

7/8/2025

@LazerS we're just using a cargo rack to mount a backup generator. Will that still work?

Mike

7/8/2025

@LazerS also when I measure the frame width am I measuring inside edge of the flange or outside of the box (frame) The flanges are on the inside and box is on the outside.