C20 trailer hitch recommendations

[69Tom]

I have a 74 C20 long bed stepside with a 454. I think it used to have a huge step bumper on it with the hitch integrated, so at the moment I have no hitch on it. I'll want to be able to tow a car hauler with no issue, atv trailer, sometimes some equipment trailer (i.e. bobcat).

What's a good receiver hitch to get without breaking the bank?

Thanks!

[Dead Parrot]

Some of those HD step bumpers were rated to tow 10,000lbs. Just install the proper sized ball in one of the provided three holes. The hitch thing became the norm when the government started playing with bumper requirements.

If what you are wanting to tow uses a ball mount, might see if you can find a HD step bumper in good shape. A few years back I found one in the local Pull-A-Part for $30. Took several trips before one showed up.

Otherwise, see if there is a custom hitch place nearby. Often they can make one to your specifications for the same or less money then buying a pre-made hitch. Figure out what you want for a bumper and possibly a spare tire carrier first so they can design the hitch to fit. You often have to slightly relocated the under bed tire carrier.

[69Tom]

Going with no bumper. I don't have a spare tire at the moment, so I guess I'd have to give it some thought whether I want/should have one or just do without.

[1976gmc20]

I've towed lots of stuff with a factory step bumper.

But I can't believe there aren't off the shelf receivers still available?

[69Tom]

Originally Posted by 1976gmc20

But I can't believe there aren't off the shelf receivers still available?

I'm sure there are. Just wondering if anyone purchased one that fits great, no drilling needed, etc.

[5Tractorguy]

Tom, I have a 2" receiver hitch on my K25 that bolts up to the rear frame rails (already installed when I bought the truck). Regularly tows an 18ft tilt deck trailer without issue, usually loaded with tractors. I won't have a chance to get a better picture until the weekend or next Monday, but here's one below that kind of shows the hitch in the background. Not sure of the make...

[THI]

I put a Curt hitch on my 1978 C20 about two months ago, 4 of the 6 bolt holes lined up on the frame, two had to be drilled out on the frame.

[69Tom]

Originally Posted by THI

I put a Curt hitch on my 1978 C20 about two months ago, 4 of the 6 bolt holes lined up on the frame, two had to be drilled out on the frame.

Thanks. That’s what I ended up ordering so hopefully install is fairly easy.

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by THI

I put a Curt hitch on my 1978 C20 about two months ago, 4 of the 6 bolt holes lined up on the frame, two had to be drilled out on the frame.

Originally Posted by 69Tom

Thanks. That’s what I ended up ordering so hopefully install is fairly easy.

I was going to suggest the Curt brand but couldn't say specifically how easy the install might be for a Square (how many of the holes line-up vs. how many you'll get to drill).

I used the 67-72 ECE Hidden-Hitch set-ups on my 74 & Dually. The outer holes aligned w/holes in the frame but the center mounts required tweaking.

I bought a Curt CLASS IV hitch for my OBS '99 last year but haven't installed it yet as I have to cut off remnants of an earlier welded-on hitch to allow the install.
The Curt hitch I got is definitely a nice piece. Solid materials, coatings, & even nicely plated hardware.