Install Front Hitch - Lose Fog Lights!?! - Diesel Forum

Shiawassee · 06-05-2005, 07:31 PM

I can park the truck+slide-in camper in the driveway or I can park the truck+boat. The approach angle is too steep to park the truck with the camper loaded and the boat behind (use a 34' hitch extension).

I intended to install a front mount hitch receiver. However, the installer says the Ford fog lights must go; they are in the way of the hitch.
Ideas? This isn't a new problem, I'm sure...
DR

pntaylor · 06-06-2005, 08:54 AM

Try a search for Bodiak Hitches on the web. I just put one on my truck. They attach to the tow hooks (loops?) and you get to keep the fog lights. It comes off as easy as it goes on if you don't want to keep it there all the time.

rocky7184 · 06-06-2005, 01:12 PM

I was wanting to do a front mount also but didn't want to loose my fogs.Thanks for that tip on the Bodiak hitches

RStafford · 06-09-2005, 06:21 AM

I installed a Draw-Tite front receiver on my 04 and kept the factory fog lights. I had to shim the bumper out to get everything to fit. I have some pictures on my website www.staffordsworld.com just click on “truck modifications update” on the left and you’ll see the link for the “front hitch install”

Shiawassee · 06-09-2005, 04:18 PM

Thanks for the ideas. Solution found.
For what I need, the Leed Engineering receiver which bolts to a tow hook will do the job. $75.00 plus shipping.
DR

OT · 06-09-2005, 06:33 PM

Have also considered. Drawtite Vs LE receiver. Drawtite puts r. in center VS LE r/l off center.

Q...How much wt. will front end handle? Seems LE off center r. would put more strain on front end VS center r. or makes no diff.?

LE hitch appears to be easier install, or is it? Wondering what/if any effect that has on loaded front end. I understand just for moving about, so maybe it's n/a? In my case, lite wt. TT 4800# T.wt. 450#. Yeah, would be handy for sure. Even w/my 13' alumn. gregor when I have to back down half mile to reach water in late summer. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggrin.gif[/img]

TIA...OT [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Shiawassee · 06-10-2005, 08:51 AM

OT, I guess we pay for what we get. LE is careful to not give a weight spec, while Bodiak will allow 500 lbs tongue weight.
But, my tongue weight is about 150 lbs and I don't care for the way the Bodiak single receiver sticks way out in front of the bumper.

I think if my load were heavier, I'd likely put in a behind-the-bumper model and build a custom fog light bracket.
DR

Kennard04 · 06-10-2005, 03:33 PM

we're talking about a front hitch right? Tow ratings ? For what ? You're going to drop the ball on the hitch and push the trailer into a spot, it'll take 5-10 minutes max ? A 10K trailer with 10-15% tongue weight will go 1000-1500 lbs of tongue weight, I doubt you'll do much damage if you're a bit over on weight for 5 minutes.

OT · 06-10-2005, 08:28 PM

[ QUOTE ]
we're talking about a front hitch right? Tow ratings ? For what ? You're going to drop the ball on the hitch and push the trailer into a spot, it'll take 5-10 minutes max ? A 10K trailer with 10-15% tongue weight will go 1000-1500 lbs of tongue weight, I doubt you'll do much damage if you're a bit over on weight for 5 minutes.

[/ QUOTE ]

That's why I asked. Ive never done it. Geez, I can speculate myself w/no outside help. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img]

OT