Draw-Tite Front Receiver, Will it Fit?

[badge49]

I found a guy locally who has a Draw-Tite front receiver for sale, but it came off an Expedition/F150. The Draw-Tite website didn't give measurements. Does anyone know if this will fit the front of my '97 XLT Explorer?:navajo:

 

[sdaviddr]

Chances are its too wide!But just to be sure go to DrawTite wedsite and check the part numbers for an Explorer and F150 to see if they are the same

 

[gijoecam]

No, it will not. The mounting points are completely different. The F-150 unit mounts to the tow hook mounting points on the frame rail. Your Explorer doesn't have tow hook mounting points on the front of the frame, and even if it did, the frame rails are nothing like the F-150.... spacing and mounting angle is completely different.

-Joe

 

[MountaineerGreen]

You can buy em from e trailer for $99. I took two donner hitches and built one for mine. The frame rails are flat on the bottom, with a minor amount of drilling one can be bolted up. If you want one, I would just buy the custom fit one. They are nice for pushing trailers around in tight spaces and make great tow hook or winch points.

 

[badge49]

Thanks guys, I guess it was too good to be true

 

[capt_bob]

You will find that factory front mount receivers are no longer in stock for your 1997 XLT. After an exhaustive search, I had to have a custom made for 98 XLT. Find a welding shop or RV Center that specializes in custom hitches. Mine cost less than $100.

 

[badge49]

That's probably what I'm going to do. I already have an extra Class III hitch off a 2001 F250 that I can cut up. I'll post pictures whenever I get around to it

 

[MountaineerGreen]

Ive got a thread on here somewhere where I built one using a F250 hitch and my old rear hitch. You may be able to look at my pictures and get some ideas.

 

[MountaineerGreen]

Here it is:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=169514&highlight=hitch+front

 

[badge49]

Here it is:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=169514&highlight=hitch+front

That's great! I think I'll do something similar, your pictures will really help!:navajo: