Airbags with under-bed hitch

[newbie_101]

Hey guys,

I have the Reese signature 18k under-bed hitch and am wanting to install rear airbags. The problem I'm having is interference with the bracket that attaches the rails to the frame. It is covering a hole in the frame that is needed to attach the airbag.

I have contacted firestone and was told that there is no problem in drilling a hole through this bracket because a tightened bolt will be filling it. I'm concerned about structural integrity of the hitch being affected by punching a hole in the bracket. From what I can tell this is the only thing that holds the hitch to the frame.

Anyone out there using this style of hitch with airbags?

[kena48]

I had a very similar problem because of my slider hitch. Instead of drilling through the bracket, I went with the inside type airbags. These photos may help:

http://picasaweb.google.com/kena48/A...stoneModel2400

[newbie_101]

I too have the inside type bags, however, the problem I have is with the horizontal hitch mounting bracket. If you look at this photo, my mounting brackets are very different. The bolt shown holding the upper bag bracket to the frame is not accessible. The left and right hitch bracket join with a 24" bracket that runs horizontally along the frame, covering the hole in the frame needed for the bolt in the picture. The only way to insert this bolt is to drill a matching hole through the hitch bracket.

I will try to post pictures this evening.

[kena48]

Oh, I see what you mean. I haven't seen any with that bracket there.