1. Home
  2. Jeep and Willys (new and old)
  3. Hitch for '89 YJ

Hitch for '89 YJ

Folks, I have a 1989 Wrangler. I would like to add a class III hitch to the rear. The bumper is flush with the tailgate and there are two oval shaped things attached to it on each side of the spare tire - presumably to act as bumper/shock absorbers in the event of a hit.

I would like to put a hitch on this thing but the gas tank is right behind (and hangs somewhat below) the bumper. Are there any suggestions from anyone who has added a hitch in this scenario?

By the way, I also want to add a front hitch so any advice or caveats would be appreciated.

Thanx Bill Smith

Reply to
BSartist
Loading thread data ...

Bill, a class III hitch would be bolted to the Jeep frame not the bumper.

That being said your Wrangler cannot safely pull a class III load due to its short wheelbase.

Reply to
billy ray

Integrated bumper tow hitch like the Tomken Protec bumper.

formatting link

I have no complaints about mine except for the fancy powder coat getting rust bubbles underneath. Ground it all off and painted it with Rust-Oleum.

Those oval things are called "Bumperettes".

Earle

Reply to
Earle Horton

Thanx. This is for very short distances only a few times a year. Namely taking my boat about a half mile to the launch ramp for the season and then back out at the end of the year.

billy ray wrote:

Reply to
BSartist

Reply to
RoyJ

Bill,

I had my factory towbar modified with a 2" receiver welded under it and reinforced on each side. I pulled a 13 ft, 2000lb tent trailer all over hell's creation. I still have the setup, but have since replaced it with an integrated bumper, spare tire carrier. I have a 91 YJ, but the 89 should be no different in the rear half. If you want this thing, I'll ship it to you as long as you cover my cost to do so. Otherwise, it goes to the dump.

Reply to
reconair

Scott, I'm interested. But when you say factory towbar I'm not completely sure what you are referring to. Do you happen to have any photos so I can get an idea if it will work for my situation? Pending that, let me know what the shipping is and how to make payment and we'll do it. This is a vehicle to be used for plowing and occasional trailer maneuvering so I'm looking to stay cost effective :-)

That being said the trailer I will put on this will have over 300 lbs tongue weight. Maybe 4000 lbs load. But I would never trailer more than half mile.

Bill

rec> Bill,

Reply to
BSartist

Hey, Bill

Reply to snipped-for-privacy@staffnet.com and I'll take some pictures of it. Also, send me your zip so I can calculate shipping. It bolts to the rear frame crossmember that your bumperettes attach to. It weighs about 35/40 lbs. The towbar itself was offered for my 91YJ as part of a factory tow package (it's not after market). I had a 2" receiver welded to it and reinforced. I dunno, 300lbs tongue weight is abit much. I'd be leery at best.

Reply to
reconair

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.