Is it okay to go over the weight rating of a front hitch if you are only parking a trailer? I want to get one but they all seem max out at 500/5000 lbs. I knew some of this is axle and frame limited. I would not go over those limits on the road, cargo tray or bikes. But I also want to be able to park the camper easier..

 

What's the hitch weight on the RV? No sweat on legality as you aren't on a public hwy, but will it hurt the truck? Can't tell without knowing what weight it is.

 

Just under 1k lbs. Trailer weighs about 8k loaded.

 

I don't understand why you can't back up like everyone else?

 

In most situations I probably would just back up. I just want to know if it is an option for marital harmony when needed.

 

Say nothing more..

 

For just this purpose I'd surely do it.

 

When we had slide in campers I had a front hitch to put the boat in, it worked but it took some getting used to with the steering tires that close to the hitch

Denny

 

1K on the front puts alot of weight on the frame, and a lot of pressure on the power steering system. Is there 1K of room left on the front axle? I think the problem is the rear of the truck frame is designed for the massive hitch, and in comparison, there is actually very little metal on the front end.

In the redneck sense, I've also seen these setups raise the rear end of a truck, but that was with way too much weight on the front.

 

Depends. Each truck is different. If you have the snow plow package then there can certainly be room for the additional weight.

 

Just for parking I wouldn't worry about it. I'm assuming you're not moving the trailer more than 20 or 30 feet, then unhooking.

 

Agreed, the stresses on the frame from a bouncing load going down the interstate are much higher than a low speed parking situation. I would be comfortable going a long way over posted rating in this situation.

 

Thank you for the responses. One more question. Has anyone used a winch mount on one of these?

 

People do. IMO advisability of such a winch mount really depends on the type of potential use.

 

I have without issue. Make sure the pull is flat. Theres alot more horizontal strength to these front hitches than vertical.