Hitches, Suggestions Needed

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Mar 1, 2011 | 07:29 PM

aj197816134

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Hitches, Suggestions Needed

Hello Guys:
97 F250 HD, 4x4, Ext cab, 8 ft box, Auto, PSD Powered:

I am looking for suggestions of brand, and purchasing locations for the following:

Rear Hitch: Need a decent heavy hitch for towing, I have the step bumper in place, and I have seen some with the ability to carry a spare, BUT MY SPARE is MIA. Any ideas or suggestions, there are no holes drilled for this that I can see.

Gooseneck Hitch: I want a decent set-up for occasional towing, that includes a hidden, or flip style ball. I have seen CURT, and some others

The truck once had a gooseneck and the PO removed it, I believe it might have been a 5th wheel but cant tell from the bolt pattern as of yet

Mar 2, 2011 | 09:41 AM

superduty4x4

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From: Newport, WA

For the bumper hitch, just get a good V5 rated hitch. Etrailer is a good place to shop. For the gooseneck, my preference would be the B&W turnover ball.

Mar 2, 2011 | 06:28 PM

rodneywar

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From: Maryland

x2 on what he said the turnover ball can be either a goose neck or 5th wheel

Mar 2, 2011 | 07:33 PM

FARM69

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From: Kearney, Nebr

I don't run one of these but the seem to take the majority with all of the guys that I work with for the gooseneck.

B&W Custom Truck Beds, Inc.

I made mine myself and looking back now I sure wish I have a turnover ball...

Mar 2, 2011 | 08:03 PM

aj197816134

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I was reading at the same time, waiting for replys. I do like the B&W Turnover style. Seen a few trucks which had this on it.

V5 I was looking at some too. I have some time to do the research, Thanks guys

Ok, Any suggestions on type of drill bits to drill the frame for the rear hitch? I will of course step drill. Didnt know if anyone knew of a good quality bit

Mar 3, 2011 | 01:46 AM

Muktown

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From: Elkhorn, WI

Good quality cobalt drill bits are your best bet. Hard to find at standard stores but Fastenal can get them if you have one near you. Or pretty much any industrial supply store. I get alot of my stuff for machining at www.use-enco.com Precision Twist Drill is the brand of cobalt drills we use at work. They're expensive if you buy whole sets but just individual drills are only a few bucks a piece
Don't spend the extra money on carbide it isn't suited for hand drill applications in steel just get cobalt drill bits. They last much longer than HSS

Mar 6, 2011 | 10:10 AM

tschauf

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I have a B&W and I love it. I also have a fifth wheel hitch that plugs in where the ball goes in. Love the setup and you can pull any trailer, and is also very stout.