RV towing hitch - quick question

Thanks for the replies. I was guessing it was ok, but since I'm doing all of my own base plate, wiring etc, I just wanted to be sure. Also, since the question was asked, the motorhome isn't very new. It's a 1997. The tow bracket looks like it has been on there since the beginning. And the bolts do look very large.

Thanks again.

ThorResidencyNewbee wrote:
I'm finishing up the installation of my tow setup and out of curiousity I looked at the factory tow bracket under my MH. It appears to be connected by 4 large bolts/nuts to the frame (2 per side). The build sheet says the MH has a 5,000 pound towing capacity. I just assumed the rear tow bar would have more bolts or be welded. Does that sound right? Thanks.

Sounds good to me and would rather have a bolt on over a weld, leaving more versatility for changing or reinforcing. Even when grossly overloaded, most rigs will have some sort of an overheating problem in the drive train and above everything else, if at all.

Your hitch could be bolted or welded and have that tow rating. Check with your local RV repair or get on the manufacturer website and search it out.

This is a new or fairly new motorhome, right? Given that it is, within the last 10 years or even a little older, the coach builders followed Ford's specs for the frame extensions that permit them to build such a long body on what started out as a short chassis. Likewise the trailer hitch people have their specs. May sound counterintuitive, but BOLTED is the recommended mounting for trailer hitches.

In short, you're OK.

Remember the hitch also has a vertical rating. Usually around 10% of the tow rating, so a "5000-lb" hitch probably has a 500-lb weight rating, pressing down on the ball. That's 500 (in this example) on a ball mounted in a standard drawbar. Extend that drawbar and the load has to be reduced. Also, because of the long rear overhang motorhomes have, weight on the ball is multiplied as it adds to rear axle load, and can also lighten the front end.

No welding, most are bolted. Some frames cannot be welded.
Bolts should be sufficient depending on size. Hardened 1/2 bolts(if that is what you have) in sheer will be plenty strong.