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towing with a step-bumper ?

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Old Jun 22, 2015 | 02:31 AM
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towing with a step-bumper ?

Hey all,
I have a 79 F250 4x4 with a step-bumper and am curious who has experience towing with the step-bumper that has a built in receiver, but am curious if i should tow with it or switch to a regular bumper with a regular receiver hitch ?
 
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Old Jun 22, 2015 | 04:59 AM
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Don't exceed weight limits stamped into it. Fine for a small utility trailer hauling a lawn mower or motorcycle, not much else.
 
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Old Jun 22, 2015 | 07:00 PM
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Some OE and aftermarket step bumpers have a decent tow rating. Most don't (2000 lb max). If you can clearly see a weight rating and it looks beefy and well attached, go by that. Otherwise, suggest 2000 lb max.

Good frame mounted receiver hitches are available new (etrailer and others) or used. Its a nice addition.
 
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Old Jun 22, 2015 | 07:43 PM
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I did a lot of towing with a step bumper mounted drop hitch. Including a car trailer from Ohio to NY. When a bumper bracket broke in VA, I figured it was time to go to a frame mounted hitch. As Blue and White mentioned a nice addition. Plus there is a variety of ball mounts available - drop, rise etc.
 
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Old Jun 25, 2015 | 07:23 PM
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thanks guys, i was kind of figuring that i would have to swap to a frame mounted receiver hitch instead of the built in to the bumper receiver that i currently have.
 
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Old Jun 25, 2015 | 11:07 PM
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Some aftermarket ones (Fey) have pretty good ratings - 800lb Tongue Weight, 8000lb trailer weight. They bolt to the frame with heavy duty brackets.

Surestep Bumper, Chrome-Broncograveyard.com
 
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Old Jun 26, 2015 | 10:56 AM
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I actually just realized that it isn't just a drop bumper but a deep drop/ cowboy bumper and the 2" receiver hitch is built into the bumper. if that helps.
 
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