Thread: Trailer Hitch Receivers

Ok, so I have a 2005 Supercab with the 6.5ft bed, it didn't come with a factory installed trailer hitch. I'm getting a sandrail with my buddy, and will need to tow, so I'll need one now. However, the aftermarket ones I look at are good, but I don't like how the hitch crossbar is visible below the rear bumper. I would like a factory one that is concealed except for the receiver part, and for that I was going to go to a scrapyard and take one from a similar model year truck. However, none of the ones around me seem to have the 04-08 models (I mean I see a ton of them living in CA and thought it would be an easy find). My question is, can I take one from an earlier model F-150? The junkyards have a lot of late 90's and very early 2000's. I know the body styles are different, but the frames should be the same right? And it should still hide under the bumper? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

They have diff frames ! Not sure what the yr split is but have you tried uhaul yet!! ?

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No, but thanks, I'll try there. I just want one that doesn't have the crossbar visible.

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And what is a vibration damper and how do I know if I have one? Cause some hitches say they won't fit if the truck has it.

Alright, yeah cause I keep seeing it. I'm assuming it's what you said because the hitch bolts to the frame, so it must be something in there. Just don't know what it looks like lol.

Originally Posted by Raptor05121

No you can't. In 2004 Ford switched to the C-channel frame which is considerably stronger than my welded box frame.

That's what I feared, the frames are different. Alright, thanks for the feedback guys, guess I'm stuck getting one with the crossbar exposed.

Although my truck didn't come with a factory hitch, just the ready kit (like the connecting wires) it should have the holes pre-drilled in the frame for the factory style hitch correct?

Originally Posted by Raptor05121

I have a hidden hitch and it mounts to the inner frame rails and then drops down to expose the hitch. IMHO it is a very well-blended rear-end.

I've seen a couple like that, but some of the crossbar is still exposed. I just found an all Ford salvage yard about 20 miles away, they're only open mon-fri though so I'll have to call then. They do have parts for my '05, but just broad topics so Idk about the hitch. If I find one, my frame should have the pre-drilled holes for it correct?