Hello all. Looking into getting a trailer hitch for my truck so I hopped under the back to look and saw there looks to be only 2 holes per side on the frame. The trailer hitch i'm gonna get has 2 holes that are close together and then one towards the front of the truck. The only holes on the frame are no more then a couple inches apart. Can I just install it with the 2 holes per side? Would that be
sufficient? Or do I have to drill another hole? Thanks guys!!


1999 F150 Reg. Cab long bed:4.2L

 

i had the same issue w/ my hitch.i have to bolts per side and never had a problem and i towed alot of stuff.i think the other holes are for different aftermarket hitch manufacturers.

 

i would most definitely drill the extra hole on each side. If this is going to be the full size receiver, the two back bolts are designed to hold the majority of the weight while the front bolts are there to keep the hitch from twisting back on the frame under a load.

 

Good day!!

I agree with jgmerrill!! I put this same class III receiver on my 2000 Xcab 5.4L and I drilled the third hole on each side... I was even considering putting a fourth hole in the big space between the pair of existing and the one I had to drill... I would also recommend you find some of the best hardware you can for this... This is not something you would want to chance, unless you will never tow anything heavier than a jet ski...

Good luck!!

Cheers!!

 

Thanks for all the replies guys. I think I might just drill the hole to be on the safe side. Don't want to lose the boat. Thanks again

 

I would recommend using grade 8 bolts to secure your hitch! unless someone else knows of a stronger grade.

 

Yeah I will be using grade 8. And maybe some blue lock-tite. Thanks for the reminder tho.

 

Not a problem, didn't see anyone mention it, good idea on the locktite!