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Dodge Ram 2002-2008: How to Install Front Mount Trailer Hitch

Front mounted trailer hitches are needed for specific applications. Read this guide to find out how to install one on your Dodge Ram.

By Jerry Perez - July 30, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (2002-2008).

Front mounted trailer hitches are convenient when there is the need to constantly tow the vehicle safely. The trailer hitch is mounted to the front frame member instead of in the back as it's commonly done to pull a trailer. A front hitch comes in handy for RV'ing or construction or farming applications. Remember that anytime you install a front hitch, it is important to use one appropriately designed for your model year truck, as the design and proper center of gravity are crucial for proper pulling. Here is guide on how to install a front hitch yourself, although visiting a dealer or repair shop due to the necessity to drill directly on the truck frame is recommended.

Materials Needed

  • Front trailer hitch
  • Drill and 1/4" and 1/2" drill bits
  • Ratchet wrench
  • 7/8" deep socket
  • Torque wrench
  • Floor jack and jack stands

Step 1 – Jack up truck

While this step isn't always necessary, it depends on the current ride height of your truck. If needed, find the appropriate jacking spot in the center cross frame member of the truck, lift truck and secure with jack stands.

(Related Article: How to Jack up Truck - Dodgeforum.com)

Figure 1. Jack up and secure truck.

Step 2 – Mount hitch

The mounting process is fairly simple. Start by using the 7/8" socket and ratchet wrench to remove the bolts located at the end of the frame member. You will see a total of two bolts on each side (one on top of the other). Start by removing one side first and mounting the hitch and hand tightening the bolts, then move to the opposite side and repeat. Do not over-tighten bolts at this time.

  • Figure 2. Remove bolts.
  • Figure 3. A closer view of the bolts to be removed.

Step 3 – Drill holes

Now that the front facing part of the hitch is attached to the frame, you must drill holes to secure the bottom bracket to the frame. Start by using the 1/4" bit and drill where the screws must go, then follow up with a 1/2" bit to make it slightly bigger. Then use the provided bolts and nuts to thread them into place. Only hand tighten them into place for now.

  • Figure 4. Drill holes on the bottom bracket.
  • Figure 5. Thread bolts by hand.

Step 4 – Torque bolts

Now that all bolts and nuts are in place, make sure to properly torque them to the hitch manufacturer specifications ONLY. The front facing bolts are usually torqued in between 70 and 90 foot pounds of torque, while the bottom bolts are torqued in between 20 and 30 foot pounds of torque.

Figure 6. Torque bolts to spec.

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