Hows it going, I plan on moving soon and money is tight. I need to rent a uhaul trailer and don't have a hitch, I was wondering what the maximum towing capacity would be if I just hook a ball up to my bumper. Its a 99 1500 with a 318. Thanks for the help.

 

If I remember correctly, max tongue weight on the bumper is 200 lbs, max towing is 1000 pounds. DO NOT TOW A LARGE U HAUL TRAILER WITH JUST THE BUMBER. You can get a "universal" class 3 hitch from wal-mart for around $80. Then a ball and mount is around $20. And the wiring harness is cheap. If you have any mechanical skills what so ever, you can install of it yourself. It took me an hour, including assembly of the hitch, and installing. It helps to have a friend hold it up while you put the bolts through, but it can be done by yourself.

I understand what it's like to not have any money, I'm in the same situation, but you have to tow safely. If the trailer you are getting is the little sport line trailer thats shaped like an egg, you might be okay, but I wouldn't tow that with just a bumper ball anyway. If you are rented a trailer any bigger than a 4x5 or so, especially if it's enclosed, YOU CAN NOT USE YOUR BUMPER.

Also, look for any used hitches as well. if they don't come with hardware, get some Grade 8 hardware from the hardware store. MAKE SURE it's grade 8. Lowes and Home depot both have grade 8 bolts. Make sure you use lock washers and flat washers and use grade 8 nuts and bolts.

 

I wouldnt put more than 500lbs on the bumper. They aren't made for towing.

 

If you think money is tight now, wait until you see the bill for the big freakin' wreck you'll cause if you tow too much trailer on a bumper hitch.

Hit the wrecking yards where you may be able to pluck out a factory hitch for a very good price.

 

All trucks should come with hitches...and front tow hooks.

 

And an ice-chest filled with one's favorite beer.

 

And 72 virgins.

 

Ahh the American dream..

 

Yup...

 

Thanks for the help, yes that is the American dream... I dont know why I thought i heard somewhere you could tow up to 2000 on the bumper, time to start hitting the junk yards.