I'm considering installing a front receiver on my 05 F250 to make parking my 32' TT easier. My RV slab is only 13" wide with a 10' gate and I can't back straight in because my streets are tree lined (association property). 3 years ago the tree was much smaller and I could pull it out without touching the tree branches. Today, the trees branches rub the side of the trailer and have caused some minor damage to the aluminium.
I am slightly worried about the weight on the front suspension and possible damage to the steering gear and/or power steering pump. The total distance I would tow using the front receiver is less than 100 feet at at very low speeds.
Any thoughts from those of you using a front hitch?
You should be fine on the weight. It will be no more weight than a plow. Plus you have the solid front axle so there will be no issues there.
I am not sure if the purchase aftermarket front hitches are strong enough for that. I built mine and welded it in between the frame. It pokes out through the bumper hole so it does not hang down low either.
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1996 F-250 extended cab long box five speed. Home made Tymar, 203 Stat, 60 gal in bed fuel cell, 315/75's, no muffler, ebpv welded open 3" to 3" DP, Babies. 290K, still chugging, and still smoking when cold.
UPDATED 8/1/08 Replace so far. 1 LUK flywheel+clutch, 2 thermostats, 2 set of brakes, 1 set of calipers, 5 CPS, 3 sets of tires, 2 Transfer pumps, 1 Injector modual, 1 Computer, 2 Alt, 2 sets of batteries, 1 Water pump, 6 Belts, 1 PS hose, 2 Sets ball joints, 2 set u-joints, 2 carrier bearing, 2 Speed sensors, 1 oil pres sender, 1 temp sender, 4 sets of e-break cables, 1 front fuel tank, 2 rear fuel tanks, 2 set of glow plugs, 6 Glow plug relays, Oil galley o-rings, Turbo pedistal o-rings, EBPV o-rings, 3 sets of Injector O-rings, 1 Vac-pump, 1 new carpet.Total $$$ in repairs v/s miles driven = 3.0 cents per mile. Add fuel to that it jumps to 14.8 cents per mile over the life of the truck.
I have a Draw-Tite hide a hitch. It is rated for 500lbs of tong weight. I plan to use mine for the occasional trailer pushing and a front cargo box. Just had it put on this summer and haven't used it yet. I don't think you will be overloading your truck front end for your short use.
You can see it behind the license plate. I have since made a plate mount that slides in the receiver.
I agree with everyone else that you won't have any issues with the weight. I would try to only turn your wheels when you are moving though. that would be easier on the power steering pump. Also, you might not be able to see anything because your mirrors will be useless. Any if your TT is 8'-6" you will really have a tough time. I would put the front hitch on anyway because it is a handy thing to have, but probably stick to backing the trailer in so you can see what you are doing.
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1996 F250 4x4 ext. cab, long bed 5 spd. 3.55ls, Tymar Intake, Tymar 4" downpipe and 4" exhaust. AIC, B&W turnoverball, EBPV brake, tranny temp gauge, boost gauge, and egt gauge. 235k miles and thousands of $$$$ in maintenance and repairs.
I have to stab my 26' TT up a short 10% grade to a level pad. It was a total pain trying to back it in. I put a front receiver on, and its the best thing I ever did. I can see where the trailer is going, miss the eaves of the house, and use low range 4wd to get it up the slope.
SWEET!
OMC
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Feb 03 6.0 Silver F-250 SD SC XLT long box, 6-spd 3.73ls, Fx4, Stock, Spray-in liner, Contico box.HARPOONED.
go for it youll love it more than a pig in mud best thing since slice bread
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88 F-250 body,550 rear frame setup, 7.3 idi, 3:73 dana 80 rear, srw, dana 50 front, heavy duty leaf springs, back up camera, 20$ wallyworld fog lamps, class 5 bumper hitch welded to frame and gusseted, 32" steering tires all around, ac power converter,jeep bucket seats, deezee runningboards (cab only),cobra 29 cb w/ 102" whip, 2 trucklight worklights on front stake pocket each side,high lift jack behind seat, toolbox for the junk, visor, running lights, 6600 lbs with all my junk
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