Installing Receiver Hitch on 5th wheel

When we bought out new HH in 2009 it had a receiver hitch on it.
I had the thing removed because the DW would had a 40'trailer on the sucker to haul more of her junk..

You will get lots of advice on this but I believe the best way to go is to get a professional welder to fabricate a hitch for you like I did. The welder reinforced the frame about six feet from the back toward the axles and then welded a bracket onto the frame on each side. He then welded a two or three inch square tube to the bracket and reinforced it on the bracket. Then he put the center tube in the middle, welding it to the tube and putting reinforcing pieces on both sides. It took him about four hours to do all the work so I have no doubt that he built it quite stout. They also ran wiring from the taillights to a seven pin connector so I can connect my boat trailer to electricity when double towing. We have used this set-up six times since doing it with no problems. If you wish, send me your email address to jalichty@bresnan.net and I'll take a couple of pictures for you.

Thanks

Peg Leg wrote:
I welded a square tube to each frame rail. The tube has a hole in the center like a receiver that I use to bolt two different rear accessories. One has a 2" ball for pulling my alum fishing boat. The second is a tray about 18" wide that I can haul firewood, burn barrel or my generator.

this is what I built for my rear rack my pull my offroad baja soon. I used grade 8 bolt nuts and washers.used grade 8 nut bolts and washers.

then I had to cut through the fiberglassthen I plasma cut a square opening to put the receiver hitch in and fully welded that up

I welded a square tube to each frame rail. The tube has a hole in the center like a receiver that I use to bolt two different rear accessories. One has a 2" ball for pulling my alum fishing boat. The second is a tray about 18" wide that I can haul firewood, burn barrel or my generator.

In before the tandem towing haters......

I have a hitch on the back of my Gulf Stream. I had a professional welder build and install it. It has worked flawlessly since I bought the trailer new. I usually tow my 5000 pound boat behind me.

The added tongue weight will have a negative impact on your ride - mostly in additional "chucking". I finally installed an air ride pin this year and it made a big difference.

Check out Open Range Owners Forum.
I know of a member that has installed a 2" receiver on his 399BHS. Lots of useful Open Range specific info on the site

First....call MFG. and inquire whether of not your model can have a hitch.Frame, support etc.

Wiring can be picked up via rear tail lights....remove assemblies and fish wire thru.

I would have a 'trailer shop' weld receiver on and add additional bracing supports vs a bolt on style

I fabbed up a heavy duty bumper and bolted and welded to frame but this was on older fleetwood.
I have pics if u are interested.

A couple firms sell "universal receivers". These bolt to the frame of the 5er. I bought one from e-trailer.com for a previous trailer (used as a bike carrier)