I am planning to put a hitch and trailer wiring on my '05 Durango. I found a dealer on ebay that sells the factory hitch and 7 way wiring new for $285. I don't care if the hitch is factory, but I would like the factory wiring. I could probably go a bit cheaper with another brand of hitch. Is it worth an extra 30-50 dollars for the OEM hitch? Any advantages/disadvantages to going with the factory hitch? Any idea what it should cost for installation?

 

Leted_82
I am not sure with aftermarket hitchs are you looking for and if it is bold on or drill is required? I would rather spend a liitleextra money for the factory hitch since it bold right on your vehicle.
Most of the factory hitch I think it will comes with wiring harness and relay that plug direct toyour D.
I have helped many friends to install factory hitch to their truck without any issue.

 

Trust me the OEM wiring is sooooo worth it. I bought my Durango new and then had a A-1 hitch installed. The $285 is that great of a deal unless shipping is included. I checked the prices after the fact and it would have been cheaper to go OEM. Figure on about $100 to $150 install, assuming they weld and do a proper install. I would go OEM in a heart beat. Also, if you don't go OEM you will need to get a class IV hitch. Whatever you do, PLEASE go with the OEM wiring.

MrN

 

Thanks for the responses! I will definetly go with factory wiring, and most likely the factory hitch. My local dealer just quoted $500.00 for both and the install. The aftermarket hitches were "no-drills", but OEM sounds better. Is welding standard even with a factory hitch that bolts on? Or is it just a good idea?

 

If memory serves me the factory hitch actually runs along the frame (like reinforcement). So I believe it has to be welded. Welding is also stronger then u-bolts. It's been two years.For $500 dollars if that includes wiring, hitch, and install (OEM) I think that is pretty darn reasonableand you won't have the headaches that I have.

MrN