Chris288

o.k. got a 2001 f-150 super screw, manual says it tows 7,200, bumper says 500/5,000, factory installed receiver hitch says class V but then on plate says 500/5,000.... So does that mean its really a class 111....

I found a class IV on etrailer.com thats rated for 800/8,000 for 189.00 bucks,, plan to tow 6,500 do I stick w/ the factory hitch or get the one from etrailer ??

Ford has me confused...

Mr. Demeanor

The weight rating depends on if your usng a weight distributing hitch. The manual says whats its capable of towing, not what its set up to tow.

SS930

I'd go with the class IV so you don't have any insurance issues should you ever need to make a claim.

BajaRunner

If its already got a class V you should be fine. the usually do like 500/5000 w/out the weight distributing hitch and 1000/10000 with. Ive never used a distributing hitch, but check it out and make sure its a class V. If so, you should be fine.

Chris288

It contradicts itself,,, in one place it says V-5 and on the plate it says 500/5,000

CigDaze

Chris.

Important!!! The factory hitch on Ford trucks is only a class 3(500/5000). Despite the fact that there's a "V" on the hitch. The "V" is some kind of part number or stock stamp, not the class rating.

This has come up before.
http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/s...ck+Class+hitch

Iggy

The factory hitch on my '97 F-250 LD says 500/5000 and 800/8500 with weight distribution system and that it's a class V-5 hitch. Owners manual claims a max towing capacity of 8300.
But, the hitch takes a 2"x 2" receiver. Thought class 5 used a larger size?

BajaRunner

I think the class 5 is still 2x2. man that is misleading as hell.

Chris288

Thanks Nick,, that clears this up,, V-5 does not mean class 5, ford seems to be misleading purposely. guess I should be safe and buy the class IV. Just re-checked etrailer.com their class IV is 1,000/10,000. I plan to tow right around 6,500 - 7,000 and should be fine..

P.S. the class IV is 2" x 2".....

SS930

Good call!