Recommended Class IV Hitch for a 1983 Ford Van

Updated 03/21/2025 | Published 03/15/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"

(277)

$186.20

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"

(40)

$281.12

Curt Class 5 Universal Weld-on Hitch w/ Brackets - 2" Receiver - 44" Wide

(15)

$234.80

Question:

Do any f you know of a class 4 or 5 hitch receiver that has 38 inches between mounting bolts?

asked by: Greg D

Expert Reply:

Hey Greg! We have some universal hitches like the Curt item # C47CR that can be made to accommodate 38" wide frames but no I do not have a way of finding a class IV or V hitch with 38" mounting bolts. The hitches are organized by what vehicle they fit. They're not sorted by size.

I saw you were looking at hitches for a 1983 Ford van. We do have a custom fit class IV hitch that has 38-1/4" and 38-3/4" mounting holes. It is the Curt item # 14053. I have linked a diagram below so you can see the dimensions.

What vehicle are you looking to add a hitch to if it's not a 1983 Ford van?

expert reply by: Jerred H

Curt item # 14053
(click to enlarge)

Greg D.

3/21/2025

Thanks for the reply! Do you know if there is a version of the 14053 that had a little more room between the cross tube and the mounting bracket bolt location? This one would work but I need the cross tube to be greater than 4.5 inches down from the mounting bolts. Have something it has to clear. I am putting it on a 2009 Thomas Built bus. My frame rails are 3 inches wide and 38 inches center to center.

Jerred H.

3/21/2025

@GregD You're welcome! I do not have another hitch like item # 14053 that will give you the extra drop. What we recommend for the school buses is the Draw-Tite Ultra Frame Service Body Trailer Hitch item # 41990-07. This will give you a 7" drop below your frame rails.