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 > Replacing GM OEM hitch - what to get?

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ts_hunter

MN

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Posted: 07/24/08 10:29am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I have read much on the GM OEM hitch problems, and am thinking a new hitch would really help my Equalizer hitch shift more weight forward onto the TV. I have a 1/2 truck rated for 7,400 lbs and probably will be staying under 6,000 lbs on the TT. What is a good brand to get? I see alot of talk on the Putnam XDR, but I really don't need a class 5 hitch. I was thinking more towards the Putnam 25215 (class 3). Thoughts?

TubaPete

Comstock Park, MI

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Posted: 07/24/08 11:03am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I don't think the problem applied to ALL GM hitches. If you would post the year and type of truck you have, I am sure others could tell you whether or not you have a problem hitch.


Tuba Pete

BurbMan

Long Island, NY

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Posted: 07/24/08 11:42am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

The potential problem was the hitch design used on all 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks and SUVs between 2000 and 2007 model year. A close inspection may or may not reveal any cracked, rusty, or otherwise suspect welds.

Odds are the OP has a suspect hitch, and for $150 to replace, it's cheap insurance IMO, not to mention better WD performance.

ts_hunter

MN

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Posted: 07/24/08 12:09pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Where is the best place to get a Putnam Class IV or III on-line?

BarneyS

S.E. Lower Michigan

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Posted: 07/24/08 12:31pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Here is a place that has pretty good prices. I have not purchased from them however so can't vouch for their reliability.

I know at least one member who has purchased theirs from Southwest Wheel at a very competitive price. I don't see the Putnam listed in the link provided but you might give them a call.
Barney


2004 Sunnybrook 30FKS TT
Hensley "Arrow" 1400# hitch
2002 Ford F250 Super Duty, 7.3L PSD
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weathershak

Delaware

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Posted: 07/24/08 12:35pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

My dealer told me it was just some of the round tube design hitches and the square tube design was ok. Am I missing something??


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BarneyS

S.E. Lower Michigan

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Posted: 07/24/08 01:25pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

weathershak wrote:

My dealer told me it was just some of the round tube design hitches and the square tube design was ok. Am I missing something??

No, I don't think you are missing anything. As far as I know, it was only the round tube design hitches. I am not aware of any square tube designs being used during the problem time period though. I could be wrong.
Barney

shaela21

Victoria, BC

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Posted: 07/24/08 02:27pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I switched out my OEM for a Putnam class V hitch. I do not need that much towing strength, but it is a beefier hitch and does the job just fine.


Bob & Ang
Shaela & Duncan
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Steveque

Central California

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Posted: 07/24/08 03:00pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I replaced my OEM receiver on my 2003 Tahoe. When I got it off I could see where the weld just about missed the second piece of metal in more than one place. I took the receiver to my local Chevy dealer. He turned it in to the regional service manager who said he would write to Chevy about it. The local manager then changed out his receiver.

I went with the Putnam heavy duty one, not to increase any of my weights but just as insurance against wind and other extreme road type torques. I'm glad I did as I was hit with a near 60 mph side wind down near Palm Springs. I'm sure the OEM would have come apart right then.


Steve Quesenberry
Central California

SoCalDesertRider

SanDiego, CA, USA

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Posted: 07/24/08 04:14pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I'm happy with my Curt Magnum hitch. If I were to do it over, I would probly go with the Reese Titan Tow Beast. The Curt was a better deal at the time so I bought it.

www.etrailer.com is a great place to buy any kind of hitch or towing related products at good prices. I have ordered from them quite a few times. Got my Draw-Tite front hitch from them too, best price on the net.


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