avvidclif1 wrote:
Go to their website and see how it works before asking questions. It doesn't use the factory bumper pull hitch.
When I say "bumper-pull", it is surely understood that I'm referring to the Class IV or V receiver hitch...not the actual bumper. Their website uses the same lingo.
Nonetheless, I visited the website and quickly confirmed what I was speculating. The "old" hitch is removed, and the new hitch provided by the manufacturer is installed. They clearly state that their hitch is a Class V, which has a weight limit of 12,000 or 12,500 pounds (depending on who's literature you read), unless you use weight distribution measures. The receivers on the side of the new hitch are merely for the control of the automated steering feature. They do not have any weight carrying or distribution function.
Using an example from the Ford 2015 Towing Guide:
F-250/350, SRW, 4x4, 6.7L PSD w/ 3.55 axle ratio - MAX TOW = 14,000 LBS*
* = ONLY WHEN USING WEIGHT DIST HITCH
You are otherwise limited to the actual rating of the hitch (12,000 LBS)
This represents conventional "bumper" tow ratings, which is what you're doing when using the Automated Safety Hitch. And though I couldn't find any info on their website about the weight of the device, I'm sure its no less than 750 to 1000 LBS by itself. The result is that many 5'ers (or cattle trailers) will exceed the weight rating of the vehicle and its equipment.
A comparable RAM truck is not significantly different in the ratings for conventional towing.
Again, not bashing the product, but I think you have to consider more than just the parameters of the device itself. If you fall within the specs of your vehicle and equipment, then knock yourself out. FWIW, I do find it to be a really neat product.