Extension on F-450 With ACME 91471

Updated 11/23/2024 | Published 11/21/2024

Question:

I have an ACME 91471 hitch on an F450. I need to extend out due to flatbed configuration. Max towing at extension would be roughly 7500 lbs and I would need to extent 18 to 21 if possible. Please let me know what options if any are available for this configuration. Thanks.

asked by: Stephen D

Expert Reply:

Hi Stephen; the problem with a standard extension is that it will reduce the capacity of the hitch by 50%. Assuming you can find an extension that is rated high enough your ACME 91471 is rated for 10,000 lbs. Cut that in half and you won't be able to handle your 7,500 lb requirement. With the flatbed I'm sorry to say I don't have a different solution that would allow you to use an extension and handle that weight.

expert reply by: Robin H

Stephen

11/22/2024

Hi Robin, Thanks for the reply. I looked up the ACME # and you were exactly right. The placard on the actual hitch shows the 25,000 gross trailer weight and 17,500 gross trailer weight for weight distributing and 25,000 for Pintle mount. All have 3000 lb max vertical load. I see this on their website when I enter in ACME 91601 and open the pdf. At the very end of the pdf they have the same model number 91471 but it shows the increased ratings. Not sure why they did this but it matches the placard. If this is correct would the Reese 11003 or 11004 work in this instance or is their a better option out there. I think the trailer will max out in the 6.5k range and I can adjust TW to keep at 600 lbs. Also would have to use the WD setup. I appreciate your help on this. Just want to make sure I am not out in left field with the actual truck hitch rating at 50%. Steve.

Robin H.

11/23/2024

@Stephen if you're using the WDH to give it a 6,500 lb rating and those higher ratings are accurate that would work as long as you don't exceed the capacity of the extension. The only better option is the TorkLift setup but that doesn't work with the flatbed so I think this is the way to go. I would also reach out to ACME and double check the ratings just to make sure.

Stephen

11/23/2024

Thanks again for the reply. I did speak with ACME and their catalog was outdated so the numbers I gave you were correct. I think this will work as you concluded as well. Not ideal but within the numbers. Thanks for working with me on this. Steve