Is there a way I can find out what kind of trailer hitch (class wise) the data plate isn't there. I would say oh well and buy a new one but this one is welded to the frame. It would be more work to remove it, but I will if need be

 

I'm not sure about the info but I would think it would be stamped on it somewhere.
It's not normal or right to weld a hitch to the frame. Does it still have bolts holding it to the frame in addition to the weld and are there any cracks in the hitch or the frame?

 

There was a recall (#872) for fatigue cracking on factory hitches for 98-00 years models... welding was not the fix.

Regardless of whether you're hitch was one of these of not, I'd be inclined to get that hitch off, cut up, and in the dumpster.

 

It may help to add if your truck came with the tow package. It sounds like someone just welded it on. The factory ones where bolted on. Do the bolt holes line up? It's probably for another vehicle that they made work by welding it on. I also believe the class should be stamped in it somewhere.

 

A picture or two might not hurt either.

 

No cracks in either frame or hitch. Yes there are still bolts in and I did plan on using it just until I can get a class 4 or better installed. But that's going to have to be layer down the road. I don't plan on doing much with it. There is some surface rust but nothing that would hinder the ability of it

 

The risk here is if it fails on the road, or even if it doesn't but you have a towing related accident. If your insurance company sees a receiver or hitch out of specs, they are 100% within their rights to deny coverage, leaving you responsible for damage. God forbid there is an injury or worse, you risk losing all you own and will ever own.

Just food for thought...

 

Mine was listed on my build sheet that I pulled via VIN #. (Forget the web address but it is listed somewhere on here.)

XFHP Class IV Receiver Hitch