Does Curt Hitch Receiver for 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have a Back Plate on Receiver

Updated 08/27/2022 | Published 08/26/2022

Question:

Hi, I am looking into this Curt # 13048 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ. I have 2 questions. Can you confirm the hitch is open and without a backplate to the hitch towards front of vehicle? Also my OEM hitch is quite recessed to the point where there are 5.5inch from the center of the pin hole towards the rear bumper clearance. Based on your pictures, the curt hitch seems to bring that receiver out closer towards rear bumper. Can you confirm or provide measurement from mounting holes towards rear hitch or mounting holes towards the receiver hitch pin hole? Thanks

asked by: Leo A

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13048 that fits your 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee does not have a back plate to the receiver - it's hollow all the way through.

This should be a little closer to the rear bumper of your Jeep but it won't be life-changing. When we installed this hitch on a 1998 Grand Cherokee we found the center of the hitch pin hole to the rearmost edge of the rear bumper to be 5" which is probably going to be about the same for your 1997.

Attached is an installation video for you to check out. If you let me know what you plan on using the hitch for I'd be more than happy to make some recommendations for you!

expert reply by: Jon G