Front mounted hitch

[jman86]

Hi, new to the site. I have a 2023 ram 1500 classic warlock edition. I was wondering if anyone new if the Draw-Tite Front Mount Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2" that is for the 2500 would work on the 1500. This hitch doesn't hang low. I understand I would have to modify bumper a little. But curious if it would mount up to the push plates. If holes don't line up possible drill out new holes. My plan is to mount a removable winch, wired for front, and rear of truck also run winch on my tractor. So not really looking for hidden winch mount setup. Thanks in advance

 

[tron67j]

Different frames.

This one appears to fit. You have the 4th Gen classic, you should be able to verify fitment on most exterior accessories by searching a 2018 1500. But always check with seller.

You could also PM real truck in vendor section. Always good to support them here.

Good luck

https://www.etrailer.com/Front-Receiver-Hitch/Ram/1500/2018/31374.html?VehicleID=201810564

 

[jman86]

Thank you, I'll be sure to check with them as well.

 

[DA67Goatman]

I didn't like how low the hitch sat, way down at the air dam. I cut the ends off and welded new mounting plates to the end and mounted mine directly to the frame rails. It required a hole in the bumper, at license plate height. I ended up building a new plate holder that pins in to the hitch

 

[jman86]

Thanks, I agree it sits to low, do you have any pictures on how you mounted it to the frame? I may end up taking that route.

 

[DA67Goatman]

I did not take many pictures. I just cut the endplates off the cross tube and welded 3/4" thick square steel plates with hole in each corner. I ran long bolts all the way through the front frame rails so I didn't have to try fishing nuts down the box section. Mounted it directly between the frame rails with the 2" receiver opening about 4in behind the bumper. I cut out almost as large as the license plate so I can get both hands in to do the hitch pin.

 

[Dean2]

Do NOT mount a hitch to a receiver trailer mount. While they will work on a straight forward pull, any angle at all is not going to be a good solution. I tried the receiver mounts many years ago and even a 9000 pound winch can seriously f up your mount and what it is attached to. Mount a winch front and back properly if you actually plan to use it regularly or in tough conditions.

 

[jman86]

Thank you goatman, I'm seriously considering doing it that way. I agree Dean2, straight pulls only. You never wanna do side pulls with any winching application ever.

 

[jman86]

Here's a pic of my truck, running kanati trail hog 35/12.50 on stock 20's with 1/4 inch hub centric spacers to clear ksp UCA's. Some don't like ksp brand, but I ran them on my 2017 ram with no issues had them installed over a year before I traded in for this truck. The way the bumper is designed gonna try to make it so the hitch comes out just above license plate elongated opening.

 

[subkron]

@DA67Goatman I'm trying to visualize your fab, is it similar to this with a 3/4" plate at each end?

 

[DA67Goatman]

exactly like that. I then used long bolts through the end plates through the frame. More than strong enough and its up nice and high

 

[DA67Goatman]

More pics

 

[BenchTest]

exactly like that. I then used long bolts through the end plates through the frame. More than strong enough and its up nice and high

Nice fab work. It's a good thing I don't know how to weld. I'd have all sorts of stuff in all sorts of places by now, haahaa.