Ford factory trailer hitch vs. Class V hitch - questions
 

My '08 SD came with a hitch that is rated as follows,

Weight Distributing Max Trailer Weight 12,500#, Max Tongue Weight #1,250.

Weight Carrying Max Trailer Weight #6,000, Max Tongue Weight #600.


The same hitch also came my '05 SD. On my '05, I replaced the hitch w/ a class V Drawtite hitch and grade 8 hardware. Now, having the Ford hitch and the Class V hitch side by side, the appeared to be exactly the same. Same welds, same metal thickness, same size, same shape.

So if the Ford hitch CAN tow 12,500 lbs and looks to be identical to the class V hitch - WHAT IS THE REAL DIFFERENCE?
I was thinking maybe the only difference are the mounting bolts are cheap on the Ford hitch. Or maybe Ford lawyers are involved?

BTW: I'll be towing a 38 Top Gun w/ aluminum Myco.

I somewhat agree with you. But with that said I am not an engineer so what may look the same may not be. The biggest thing I could say is if you load your factory hitch and it breaks you know your going to get that 'claimed denied' letter from Mr. insurance man:hitfan:

Bill,
The Putnam model 25230 is rated for 15K lbs. WC and 16K lbs. WD; for your truck. I agree that it sucks that you have to go through the process for just a sticker. But if that sticker protects you as Tony described above; its worth it.