When Using an Extension Would Upgrading the Factory Hitch Increase my Towing Capacity

Updated 04/21/2014 | Published 04/18/2014

Products Featured in This Question

B&W Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2"

(69)

$329.00

TorkLift Camper Tie-Downs - Custom Frame Mount - Rear

(2170)

$387.71

Question:

HI I HAVE A 2008 FORD F250 SUPER DUTY THAT I PUT A TRUCK CAMPER ON. MY CONCERN IS THE TOUNGE WEIGHT CAPASITY OF THE STOCK HITCH THAT IS 600 LBS. I HAVE A BOAT THAT HAS A TOUNGE WEIGHT OF 300 LBS AND A HITCH EXTENTION THAT IS 34 INCHES LONG. WILL THE BW HITCH S 1600LB TOUNGE WEIGHT BE STRONG ENOUGH TO HANDLE THE BOAT WITH THE 34 INCH HITCH EXTENSION? ALSO HAVE TORK LIFT FRAME MOUNTED TIE DOWNS THAT SLIDE INTO THE FACTORY HITCH CROSS TUBE AND CLAMP ON. WILL THE BW HITCH CROSS TUBE ACCEPT THESE TIE DOWN BRACKETS? HAVE INCLUDED A PICTURE OF THE TORK LIFT BRACKETS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME

asked by: COREY B

Helpful Expert Reply:

Yes, the B and W Heavy Duty Hitch Receiver, # BWHDRH25230, on your 2008 Ford F250 would be strong enough to handle your boat as long as it's tongue weight is 1600 pounds or less when fully loaded.

Just a reminder, you always want to follow the weight limitations of the component with the lowest rating. This also includes staying within the towing limits of your truck. I am estimating that your extension at 34 inches has a tongue weight rating of 450 pounds. If this is correct, upgrading your hitch would not increase your tongue weight capacity. You would still be limited to the weight rating of the extension.

I spoke with my contact at Torklift and he could not confirm that your current tie downs would work with an aftermarket hitch. He said that vehicles with a factory hitch and those with an aftermarket hitch call for different part numbers. You do have the option of just replacing the rear tie downs if you chose to go with an aftermarket hitch. # TLR3500 is the part you would need.

expert reply by: Leah S