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noteven's avatar
noteven
Explorer III
Dec 04, 2019

Front receiver on 2012 generation F350

Anyone that has installed a front receiver on a 2012 or that generation F350 - is it a “simple bolt on installation” or is some fabrication required?

Thanks
  • Hi Yeti - Hitchweb - yes.

    I want a high model that is cut through the front valence. More clearance, less leverage on the mounts.

    The main uses for the front receiver will be to carry a small motorcycle on a Versa Haul when towing the fishin’ boat, or a junk basket, or maybe a plug in winch. When launching a boat single handed with the camper on it might be easier to push the trailer from the front. In softer ground the heavier axle is on drier ground.

    When carrying something you can’t see from the driver seat I’d use what oilfield drivers call rookie sticks to keep the front box out of the shrubbery at the mall.
  • Grit dog wrote:
    ^ ???
    Uhhh ok, as long as you're going around a corner to the left...
    Or is that why you'd mount 2 receivers to the front? 1 for right turns, 1 for left turns? Lol:S


    Well sir, I admit that moving the PV off to the side does not give the driver unlimited view. But IMHO, the ability to still see all the front, down the side, and what would normally be the right rear corner of the trailer is a improvement over only seeing the front. To see a spotter, she must be in a area outside the door glass, not at the back of trailer where most drivers that use a spotter prefer to have one.
    I much prefer to keep the trailer where I can use my mirrors, but YMMV.
    As for the 2 receivers, if using a cargo platform or such, mounted at 2 points would be more stable.
  • e trailer is good for US based purchases, but I have used Hitchweb.com for purchases here in Canada. No hassles with customs and duty, prices in Canadian dollars and good service. They have a Draw Tite and a Curt shown on their website.
    On my Chevy I went with the one that sticks down further, but if I were to do it again I would get the one that gives me more ground clearance! Even though it means cutting into the front fascia for the receiver to pass through.
    Good luck.
    Brian
  • ^ ???
    Uhhh ok, as long as you're going around a corner to the left...
    Or is that why you'd mount 2 receivers to the front? 1 for right turns, 1 for left turns? Lol:S
  • First, I modify most things. What do you plan to use the receiver for? To carry a wheel less trailer, center might be ok, but I think I would go with 2.
    If your idea is to use it to spot our TT first try a easy experiment. Nose your truck up close to the TT like it would be when hooked up. Now as the driver, what can you see? IMHO, if this is the use you plan a much better idea would be mount the receiver near the end of the right frame rail. When pushing the trailer around you could see at least one side. Not as good as using mirrors...
  • 2011 F250 Draw-Tite installation was a straight bolt-in-place. An extra person, or 2 floor jacks makes life a lot easier.