Bumper hitch

[Grainraiser]

I just purchased a 94 Nitro bass boat and need to go it. My Surburban only has a bumper hitch at this time. The bumper is hitch is says not to exceed 400lb tongue weight. The boat with motor weighs a little less than 2,000lbs. I'm going to get frame hitch but need to know can I tow the boat home with the bumper hitch for now. I have about a 60 mile drive to bring the boat back. I can't find the tongue weight of my boat so I don't if this would be safe or not. What should I do to get my new baby home.


Reggie

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Bumper hitch

You should be fine.
2000 LBS should have no more that 250 LBS tounge weight. That is plenty inside the bumper range.

Check the bolts holding the bumper on and make sure they are tight and the bumper itself is tight. Check it after about 10 miles of towing and then again in the middle of the trip. If you start feeling any thing weird, stop and look.
you may find that the bumper will do great for that little of weight.
I towed for a few years on a bumper, but was one made for towing.

 

[can-amsledder]

Re: Bumper hitch

^^^I agree!^^^

As long as the bumper is not rusted out and ready to fall off!

 

[can-amsledder]

Re: Bumper hitch

Oh, and welcome to iboats! Hope you stick around!

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Bumper hitch

Issue with the bumper hitch is possibly the height.
Is this a single axle trailer ???? if so there should be no issue getting it home. Take it steady and if you feel the trailer "twitching" slow down, then stop and put a little more weight at the bow end.
Good Luck and welcome to iboats.

 

[dutchdog]

Re: Bumper hitch

I have a 94 Nitro 170dc. It is light enough that I pull it around in my yard with a riding lawn mower. You should not have any problems with yours.

 

[Grainraiser]

Re: Bumper hitch

Thank you for the quick responses and the welcome. Looks like I will be hitting the water this weekend. I thank you all.

Reggie