[Vwdiesel] Hitch Saga

[Dave Cook]

I bought 2x3 1/4 inch tubing for the cross member.

I am considering 3 different ways to put it together, though part of the decision will be on how it will position the receiver relative to the license plate.

Here is a link to a very crude drawing of the three options.  It is hosted on Facebook but I think anyone will be able to use that link.

First is to weld the cross member to the underside of the angle iron, and weld the receiver on top of that. The receiver would be at the same height as the angle iron.


Second is welding the cross member to the top of the angle iron, so the angle is "cradling" it.  Then notch the cross member to accept the receiver and keep it level with the angle iron.

Third is welding the cross member to the top of the angle iron, again "cradling" it.  But weld the receiver on top of the cross member.  This would raise the receiver, possibly too high to clear the license plate opening. 


I noticed that Travis' design resulted in the receiver being at roughly the same level as the angle iron.  I also saw that the cut opening at the license tag was slightly visible from below.  So it might be possible that it can be put together like the 3rd option and have it be in the license plate opening.

Thoughts, anyone?

 
Dave Cook


________________________________
 From: Travis Gottschalk <tgott at hotmail.com>
To: vwdiesel at vwfans.com 
Sent: Monday, May 21, 2012 8:38 AM
Subject: Re: [Vwdiesel] Hitch Saga
 

I would look into 2 X 4 tubing if you are making your own for the cross member since you already have to buy it. It will still fit but it will prevent some torquing movement that a square tube would allow a rectangle wouldn't as much. Most reciever tubes aren't painted or aren't painted for long. There is enough movement in the hitch that it will wear it off with a trailer on. The problem happens when there isn't a trailer on there and it isn't moving anymore. I take my hitches out when not in use or not for a while anyways. I do have a ball mount that I tighten a bolt and it has a lock on the other end so there isn't any htich movement and it is aluminum. Also a greaseless ball (plastic cap on the top). After this set up you will notice if your trailer wheels are out of balance as it is one tight connection the whole way through but there isn't any banging. 
Travis                            
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