By the way, Martin, my Dodge Custom Van is a 1997 model with the 318 engine. It has been rather troublefree, economical considering the nice power level, and dependable.
I was looking for a trailer hitch for this van, and couldn't find any which was recommended or would fit with the 'factory step bumper'. Finally, I saw a similar van with a trailer hitch, and asked the nice lady if I could crawl up under and have a look...I got the hitch number, ordered one online, and installed it myself in about 15 minutes.
The manufacturer says the hitch application is not recommended, but I can tell you it works as it is, and can be further strengthened with the addition of a couple of fabricated brackets.
Maybe you never want a hitch, but if you do, let me know and I'll furnish the details. The responsibility for installing, using, and maintaining a hitch is yours. I take no responsibility for what anyone does in special applications of this sort.