OPERATION OLD SCHOOL TOW RIG: PART 3

Class V Hitch, Trailer Brake Controller & 5-inch Exhaust

With fresh leaf springs and an air spring system in place under our ’97 F-350 (installed in Parts 1 and 2 of this series), the old school crew cab is well on its way to becoming a born again and formidable tow rig. However, thanks to age, rust and outdated equipment, several issues need to be addressed before we can even think about hooking it to a trailer. For starters, the factory-installed receiver hitch is practically being held to the frame via rust, the 20-year-old trailer brake controller is obviously behind the times, and the truck’s exhaust system is long overdue for replacement. After reaching out to the likes of Draw-Tite, Tekonsha and Diamond Eye Performance, we’re solving each of these problems with top-of-the-line components this month.

DW-1811-FDTOW-02 — After positioning the truck on a two-post lift and getting it airborne, Flynn’s Shop’s lead technician, Jake Bosie, got started with the removal of the rusted factory receiver hitch. The shop’s air compressor roared to life in short order as he used a half-inch impact and a 19 millimeter socket to break the 21-year-old nuts loose.

DW-1811-FDTOW-03 — The process of removing corroded, dilapidated hardware can be frustrating, but it’s made even more time-consuming when the fasteners have been covered with a thick layer of over-coating like ours were. After hammering the 19 mm socket onto each nut, the nut itself would have to be dislodged from the socket once it has been removed.

DW-1811-FDTOW-04 — For insurance against the receiver hitch falling on him, Bosie left each mounting nut on the passenger side threaded onto the end of its respective bolt. Then, he used a pry bar to break the driver side of the hitch free from the frame.

DW-1811-FDTOW-05 — Once we could see what was lurking beneath the black over-coating, it was apparent how much damage had been done to the factory receiver hitch. Towing with a hitch having this much deterioration at its mounting points could’ve spelled disaster, had we chosen to run it as-is. When towing with any older vehicle it’s important to never overlook the condition of your hitch.

DW-1811-FDTOW-06 — Following several minutes of prying along with a bit of hammering, the factory receiver hitch was completely free from the frame. Then, with all nuts unthreaded from the mounting bolts, Bosie lowered it off the truck. From there, the receiver hitch’s rusted mounting bolts were hammered up and out of the bottom of the frame rails.

DW-1811-FDTOW-07 — When the factory receiver hitch was removed, it was placed next to its replacement. Bosie also compared measurements between the two to make certain the Draw-Tite unit would fit. And although the Draw-Tite hitch measured slightly wider (40 inches) and taller (7 inches), it was nothing a drill bit and longer mounting bolts couldn’t take care of. Note the Draw-Tite unit’s all-welded construction for maximum strength and safety.

DW-1811-FDTOW-08 — The Draw-Tite Class V Ultra Frame 2-inch receiver hitch (PN 41904) is built from 5/16-inch steel, was designed for full-size, long-wheelbase trucks, and is ideal for high tongue weight applications. Its maximum weight carrying capacity is 10,000 pounds, and 12,000 pounds with a weight-distributing hitch. For protection against the elements, the Draw-Tite unit features an E-coat base with a black powdercoat finish.

To ensure the safest possible bumper tow experience we’re installing Draw-Tite’s Class V Ultra Frame 2-inch receiver hitch. For optimum braking control, we’re upgrading to a proportional Tekonsha P2 trailer brake controller. And for a fresh start, a throaty sound, and reduced EGT, we’re helping the truck exhale with a 5-inch exhaust system from Diamond Eye Performance. Additionally, we’re bolting on a direct replacement bumper from LMC Truck, as well as adding several new towing accessories from Draw-Tite and Bolt Lock to our arsenal. Following another nine-hour day spent removing, replacing, and upgrading parts at Flynn’s Shop in Alexander, Illinois, Project Old School Tow Rig is one step closer to hauling anything we need it to. Stay tuned for Part 4, where we’ll prep the E4OD transmission for heavy hauling.