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Topic: Tow Hitch (Read 508 times) previous topic - next topic
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Tow Hitch
I tow a 5,000 pound CRV when loaded with my 95TK.
Blue Ox hardware and RVi2 braking system.

My hitch has no bolts.
I assume it's been modified by a previous owner.
I had the hitch inspected and was assured it can handle the load.

Just throwing this out there for those looking to tow.




2021 Mid Bath

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #1
What are you carrying in your CRV that it weighs 5000 lb?

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit


Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #3
For the limited photos you posted, the receiver attachment doesn't look adequate from what I see, the receiver appears to be held by short welds and a coupe pieces of angle iron. It should have a lot more reinforcement and welding. IMO
Did you have a shop inspect it that specializes in hitches?

A better selection of photos would be helpful.
Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #4
For the limited photos you posted, the receiver attachment doesn't look adequate from what I see, the receiver appears to be held by short welds and a coupe pieces of angle iron. It should have a lot more reinforcement and welding. IMO
Did you have a shop inspect it that specializes in hitches?

A better selection of photos would be helpful.
Larry



I'll take some more pics.
As I recall it was a shop that did specialize in hitches.
We're in Prescott Arizona. I'd like to take it in somewhere but can't find any on Google.

I will add that I've towed this setup over 20,000 miles with no issues but it won't hurt to get it reinspected.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #5
There are 5 to 6" welds to the 1/4" plate on either side.



Also s better pic of the angle Iron.


2021 Mid Bath

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #6
"For the limited photos you posted, the receiver attachment doesn't look adequate from what I see..."

First, I am not an expert, but I have seen some good welds and some not so good welds, both acetylene and TIG. These appear to me to be 'tack' welds, and shoddily done at that, something I would not trust. I'd rather see a continuous bead the full length of each contact surface at the very least.   :o
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #7
"For the limited photos you posted, the receiver attachment doesn't look adequate from what I see..."

First, I am not an expert, but I have seen some good welds and some not so good welds, both acetylene and TIG. These appear to me to be 'tack' welds, and shoddily done at that, something I would not trust. I'd rather see a continuous bead the full length of each contact surface at the very least.  :o
We're heading to Flagstaff in a few days.
I'll check in with a hitch place there.

The hitch continues back to a tee where the welds are all continuous.

2021 Mid Bath

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #8
"The hitch continues back to a tee where the welds are all continuous."

I don't have an issue with the construct, it's those welds that caught my attention. A proper weld should flow smoothly, like wavelets on a stream, not clumpy like the bubbles you get when you blow into a straw!  ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #9
"The hitch continues back to a tee where the welds are all continuous."

I don't have an issue with the construct, it's those welds that caught my attention. A proper weld should flow smoothly, like wavelets on a stream, not clumpy like the bubbles you get when you blow into a straw!  ;)

I have to agree, they are not good looking welds, some welds are sitting on top of the metal, an indication of poor penetration.
The heavy rusting isn't encouraging either.
Not saying it will fall apart but they are not professional grade welds, it's more like an amateur home job.

Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #10
As a former Navy welder and NDT (non-destructive testing) inspector, I have to agree with the others that this is not a great looking welding job. A proper stick weld bead should look more like this. This is using 7018 rod, which is commonly used.

At a minimum, I would have all welds cleaned up with a wire brush and closely inspected. Better yet, you may want to have the welds cut out and redone by a good hitch shop that employs a good welder.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #11
Thanks for all the advice.

When I get to Flagstaff I'll hit up a welding shop to beef up the hitch.
2021 Mid Bath

 
Re: Tow Hitch
Reply #12
Update...

Found a welder in Sedona, AZ.

Ed's Welding and Fabrication Ed's Welding and Fabrication/ Metal Sales/Trailer Repair/Metal Art/Railing/Ga...

We crawled under for an inspection of the hitch. He said while the stick welds "aren't pretty" they are sound with good penetration. He mentioned the overall hitch structure was more than adequate for my towing. He said it's a bit "overbuilt" in fact.
Ed has 40 years experience and modifies many tow hitches per year.

I feel better now.
2021 Mid Bath