Custom made front receiver hitch for Ford F-53 chassis

[andrewsilver]

In 2016 I posted a thread "Front Hitch for Ford F-53 Chassis" which is too old to update. So I'm posting a new thread here as the followup for anyone interested.

Firstly, thanks for the responses on the original thread. Here's what I finally ended up doing. I found a local fabricator in Dallas called Jeff Milburn Racing and Fabrication in Dallas, TX https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jeff-...11399155598441. It cost more than I hoped - almost $800 - but they did a very nice job and it's solid.

Pics attached of the front hitch. While I intend to use the front hitch for bicycles, I mounted my Honda CRF230L motorcycle on the front and drove it home on the highway - and it works fine. The motorcycle weighs around 267 lbs and the hitch around 50, so total of around 325 lbs. However I'll be putting the motorcycle on the rear receiver and the bicycles on the front which weigh less than 200 lbs with the hitch.

I'm aware of the weight restrictions on my coach - have weighted both axles, and this works for me. Not looking for any flaming criticisms etc. - I'm just sharing for those that may be interested in a solution like this for your adventures.

[Unplanned Tourist]

$800.00, Glad I can make things like that myself.
Looks good, just need to slap a coat of paint on it and it will look like it came that way.
Happy Glamping.

[C-Leigh Racing]

That is pretty neat, how Fleetwood designed that grill, with just the right amount of space for you to install the 2" receiver tube through.
Very good idea, something that could be used for several things. One would be, like if you ever got stuck in a soft area, could use that by sliding a hook point in & hook to that to pull you out.
Did you notice an up & down motion of the bike while traveling, or was the outside bracing tubing enough.
Neil

[grindstone01]

Looks good and made very sturdy. Just watch you temp gauge on a hot summer day or pulling any long grades. The bikes may block some radiator air flow, so definitely don't use a cover on the bikes while traveling.