Gib3633 wrote:
I agree that Ram has the largest footprint and congratulate them for recognizing that. With the old cross rail system the truck box had a cross member support in the way of installing the hitch that would allow the king pin to be 2 inches ahead of the center of the rear axle. I haven't looked but I would think that would be the reason for the large spread. Ford has the smallest footprint but I see nothing wrong with it.
The gentleman I spoke with at B&W stated he wouldn't be concerned about pulling 20,000 lbs. on their 20,000 lb. hitch nor I but I already have a 20,000 hitch. I would think the reason B&W hasn't built the heavier hitch for GM yet is because they were a couple of years or so behind RAM & FORD to offer the puck system. Also possibly because GM rated their truck lower and their reason they stated was the biggest part of their customer base was hauling horse trailers and RVs around the 20,000 lb. mark.
This is way off OP's question so to that I don't lock mine in . I have a tonneau cover to hide it when not towing
B&W specifically said they rate their hitch to the lowest component. What does that tell you? By the way B&W is VERY conservative in their ratings with a huge factor built in.
Remember Craftsman rates their Shop Vac to "develop" 6 hp.
