im a n00b at towing. need a hitch and some info

[Homer Simpson]

Just upgraded my truck over the weekend from an old 01 s10 to an 11 Ram 1500 Sport 4x4. in addition to the obvious payload increase (s10 was an xtreme, low payload capacity) i needed something that can tow a 3800# car on a flatbed trailer once or twice a year. i know the ram can certainly do it (8400# or 9900# depending on gear ratio; how do i find that out? its not on the original window sticker, just that limited slip diff was added.), but the one i ended up getting doesnt have a hitch on it.

looking at hitches, they seem to come in different classes with different weight ratings. im assuming if i get one that says that it will cover the entire load i plan to pull (3800 + trailer) i should be ok. it seems tongue weight is also part of the rating and im clueless on that one. how can i figure that out? the trailer being used will probably be a u-haul flatbed rental. what kind of hitch should i be looking for? i plan to buy a hitch to permanently install, not rent one with the trailer.

 

[JulesMaximus]

Just upgraded my truck over the weekend from an old 01 s10 to an 11 Ram 1500 Sport 4x4. in addition to the obvious payload increase (s10 was an xtreme, low payload capacity) i needed something that can tow a 3800# car on a flatbed trailer once or twice a year. i know the ram can certainly do it (8400# or 9900# depending on gear ratio; how do i find that out? its not on the original window sticker, just that limited slip diff was added.), but the one i ended up getting doesnt have a hitch on it.

looking at hitches, they seem to come in different classes with different weight ratings. im assuming if i get one that says that it will cover the entire load i plan to pull (3800 + trailer) i should be ok. it seems tongue weight is also part of the rating and im clueless on that one. how can i figure that out? the trailer being used will probably be a u-haul flatbed rental. what kind of hitch should i be looking for? i plan to buy a hitch to permanently install, not rent one with the trailer.

A Class III hitch would probably do what you want and that truck, no matter which gear ratio you have, is plenty capable of towing a car of the weight you specified pretty easily. Just go down to U-Haul and they will hook you up with everything you need including the trailer. They sell and install hitches and wiring harnesses.

I'm kind of surprised the truck didn't come with a hitch.