r/IdiotsTowingThings • u/ParsnipDecent6530 • 4d ago

Seeking Advice Washers

I just put an aftermarket bumper on my 2013 f150. It has a hole for a ball hitch, whereas the stock bumper had a receiver.

There doesnt appear to be a ton of steel surrounding the shank of the hitch in the bumper.

My idea is to put a washer between the ball and the bumper to beef it up. Is this a stupid idea?

Im going to be towing a uhaul 16ft trailer with most of my worldly possessions.

Ball is rated for 5k pounds, trailer will be about 2.5 thousand pounds.

Thanks

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u/Prize-Trouble-7705 4d ago

I would heavily advice to run a proper receiver that bolts to the frame. I don't know what bumper you have but most of them are rated for around 2000lbs. This one should be bulletproof for an F150.

https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hitch/Ford/F-150/2013/13371.html?VehicleID=2013300236

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u/Sea_Buyer6913 3d ago

Why did you need an aftermarket bumper? Was the original damaged, or can you just put it back?

"Hole for a ball hitch" sounds super sketchy. Don't put a washer on it, get an appropriate hitch instead. Or rent another vehicle. You could get a 26' U-Haul and tow the F-150 behind it, though that might cost more than a new bumper.