Universal Reese Hitch modified for front - Coming...

rescu2000 · **Posted:** Wed Sep 03, 2008 12:59 am

Some back history. I have a Reese Hitch that I had on the Liberty. It was a Universal model that has the center section that mounts to two side pieces that adjust in and out to fit different vehicles. I really never liked it, I just had to buy it in a hurry one day to haul something. I kept hitting it when I went off roading. I didn't really mind hitting it, since I didn't have a gas tank skid I figured it offered a little protection.

Well, I have a skid now, so I pulled it off. I started thinking that I would like to have a front hitch though. I know that they are hard to come by, so I decided to check and see how close the fit would be on the front.

It is surprisingly close! The center section runs from tow hook mount to tow hook mount. The mouting brackets are close too. I'm trying to decide how I want to tie it into the unibody for maximum strength. I am considering 2" square tube mounted to the unibody and run out to the center section. Then I could either weld the square tube to the center section.

Another idea is to mount the universal brackets (which are like big 'L' shaped pieces) to the unibody and weld to that or run a square piece through both brackets and the center section and weld all of that into one solid piece.

The important thing is, the size is almost perfect and the bumper cover fits over it perfectly. I'll put up some pics once I've finally got it done and post them up here.

I know someone is going to say, "Hey, that won't be strong enough...". But the way I'm talking about mounting it will be stronger than the way it was mounted in the back so it should be good for close to 5,000 pounds.

candpliberty · **Posted:** Thu Nov 20, 2008 8:17 pm

I thought of the same thing. Have the center section sitting in the garage for months now (Reese Towpower center section). I bought it with the same idea but then I found out I needed a pacemaker/ defibrillator implanted and told me don't do near a welder. Soooooo, I'm healed now and "cheated" a little and went to the garage to try some welding a day before doctor appointment(just in case) hehe. My thoughts were to replace the whole center section of the plastic bumper with steel and add a skid extension from the factory engine skid to the front hitch. Also add hooks or d rings for recovery. Awaiting your pics so I can get some more ideas before tearing mine up :shock:

rescu2000 · **Posted:** Tue Dec 09, 2008 2:02 pm

I had to put the reese hitch back on so the project is on hold. I'll tackle it again when it warms up. I have a picture of the front end off if you need it. it's from a web site with a write up to install a front hitch. (one that is made to be put in the front).
Thanks

rangerd77 · **Joined:** Sat May 03, 2008 10:48 am **Posts:** 512

just get CURT one for a YJ/TJ

ga_repoman · **Posted:** Mon Dec 15, 2008 1:10 am

Hay rangerd77

Have you got a model number on that thing ??
Is it a direct fit...Lines up on both side??
I cant find the one you have with the metal hoops on both sides?
what year wrangler is that for ??

basicaly more info needed bro

and a underside pic of the completed mount up would be nice also

jinstall · **Posted:** Fri Oct 14, 2011 3:51 pm

just bought aCurt front Hitch 31022 as a direct fit for the KJ. Should have it on in a week.

arengant · **Posted:** Sat Oct 15, 2011 12:06 pm

I am selling my Curt Tj one still, just ordered a RL bumper so I don't need it (I never installed it)

Universal Reese Hitch modified for front - Coming...

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