Thor Forums

[Beau388]

Originally Posted by The Gritz Carlton

Most of these hitches are installed by LCI during the frame/chassis prep, and done very well. What I've seen with the hitch issues posted are the use of drop hitches causing the problem. Hitches are rated at a pure lateral load with the assumed ball position 4 inches from the outer, receiver "ring" of the hitch itself. Extending the hitch beyond this reduces the capacity by 50% (etrailer and a few other hitch manufacturers). Further, dropping the hitch 6 or 10 inches creates a "fulcrum" or "twisting" effect, causing stress on start ups and when stopping. The standard for most applications is approximately 18" from the ground. Most of the hitches installed on these commercial chassis' (higher than a light truck setup) are much higher than 18", requiring some type of drop.

Lippert is a parts supplier to the RV industry. Lippert is not certified to modify Ford chassis. It is MorRyde Internationalm who makes Airstream chassis and modifies Ford chassis for Thor Industries. In actuality Detroit Chassis assembles the F-53 and E-350 chassis for Ford. The F-X50 chassis and cabs are built by Ford in Ford's truck assembly plants.