Trailer Hitch Receiver for 1983 Ford F350 with Utility Bed
Updated 07/21/2026 | Published 07/10/2026
Question:
I have a 1983 F350 crew cab that has a utility bed on the back.. it has a bumper welded to the end of the frame.. The bumper extends around 10 inches from end of frame and the bottom of bumper is 1.5 inches lower than frame. I think this would be the best choice to keep the receiver as close to bottom of bumper as possible.. BWHDRH25122 .. what do you think ?
asked by: Kevin B
Expert Reply:
Hey Kevin,
Thanks for your question!
The B&W Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2" # BWHDRH25122 measures 5.4 inches from the top of the frame mounting brackets to the top of the receiver tube.
Of all the hitches we offer for your 1983 Ford F-350, this one will position the receiver the closest to the bottom of the bumper.
You mentioned your truck has a utility bed, so I'm not sure whether your truck is a standard pickup or a cab-and-chassis model. The # BWHDRH25122 is designed to fit frames that are either 34 inches or 37-1/2 inches wide.
According to the installation instructions, if your truck has the 34-inch-wide frame, the side plates must be installed with the mounting "ears" facing inward. I've included a photo from the instructions that calls this out.
I've also attached a few additional photos with measurements we've taken of the hitch. These should help you compare the hitch to your truck's frame dimensions and existing mounting holes to verify everything lines up before ordering.
Out of curiosity, what are you planning to tow with the new hitch?
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
(click to enlarge)
Expert Reply:
Hey Kevin,
Thanks for your question!
The B&W Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2" # BWHDRH25122 measures 5.4 inches from the top of the frame mounting brackets to the top of the receiver tube.
Of all the hitches we offer for your 1983 Ford F-350, this one will position the receiver the closest to the bottom of the bumper.
You mentioned your truck has a utility bed, so I'm not sure whether your truck is a standard pickup or a cab-and-chassis model. The # BWHDRH25122 is designed to fit frames that are either 34 inches or 37-1/2 inches wide.
According to the installation instructions, if your truck has the 34-inch-wide frame, the side plates must be installed with the mounting "ears" facing inward. I've included a photo from the instructions that calls this out.
I've also attached a few additional photos with measurements we've taken of the hitch. These should help you compare the hitch to your truck's frame dimensions and existing mounting holes to verify everything lines up before ordering.
Out of curiosity, what are you planning to tow with the new hitch?
Mike B.
7/16/2026
Worked like a dream on my daughters 96 250 and it has that big chrome bumper
Product Page this Question was Asked From
B&W Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- For Towing
- Class V
- 1600 lbs TW
- 16000 lbs GTW
- 16000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 1600 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- B and W
more information >
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on Trailer Hitch
Kevin
7/21/2026
Chris.. thanks for the reply .. i am planning on towing a 1946 spartan manor.. around 5k-6k lbs.. from what i have seen on the market this receiver will place the top closest to bottom of bumper.. unless you have another suggestion i will order it soon ..