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1980 - 1996 Ford F-250
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1997 Ford F-250 HD
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1980 - 1997 Ford F-350
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DRAW-TITE Class 5 trailer hitches are the choice of professionals and big toy haulers who need to get the job done! These Class 5 heavy-duty hitches are rated for up to 12,000 lbs. gross trailer weight (GTW) and up to 1,200 lbs. tongue weight (TW). They are also suitable for use with weight distribution up to 14,000 lbs. weight distribution (WD) and 1,700 lbs. weight distribution tongue weight (WDTW). DRAW-TITE hitches are designed to provide top towing performance, with solid-all-welded construction and a black powder coat finish to resist rust and corrosion. The 2-1/2 inch square receiver tube opening, bigger chain loops, tighter ball mount fit, and reinforced pin holes make these heavy-duty hitches ideal for toy haulers and commercial vehicles alike. Includes all the mounting hardware needed for installation and are backed by a nationwide lifetime limited warranty. DRAW-TITE trailer hitches are tested to exceed V-5 and SAE J684 standards. DRAW-TITE: North Americas Favorite Hitch.
| BRAND: | DRAW-TITE |
| PART NUMBER: | 45502 |
| WARRANTY: | LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY |
| WEIGHT: | 64.5 LBS |
| GROSS TOWING WEIGHT: | 12,000 LBS. |
| GROSS TONGUE WEIGHT: | 1,200 LBS. |
| RECEIVER SIZE: | 2.5 IN. |
| HITCH CLASS: | V |
| DRILLING REQUIRED: | YES |
| MOUNTING HARDWARE INCLUDED: | YES |
| ATTACHMENT LOCATION: | REAR |
| HITCH VISIBILITY: | VISIBLE |
| CROSS-TUBE TYPE: | SQUARE TUBE |
| BALL MOUNT INCLUDED: | NO |
| COLOR: | BLACK |
| FINISH: | BLACK POWDER COAT OVER E-COAT |
| MATERIAL: | STEEL |
| MOUNTING LOCATION: | VEHICLE FRAME |
| MOUNTING TYPE: | BOLT-ON |
| GROSS TOWING WEIGHT WITH WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION: | 14,000 LBS. |
| GROSS TONGUE WEIGHT WITH WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION: | 1,700 LBS. |
Draw-Tite has designed custom-fit trailer hitches since 1946 and is one of North America's most widely fitted hitch brands. Receiver hitches use solid all-welded construction and low-profile designs that follow modern vehicle contours, install with minimal bumper cutting or drilling, meet or exceed V5 CSA and SAE J684 standards, and carry a limited lifetime warranty.
Draw-Tite has been leading custom-fit trailer hitch design and engineering since its founding in 1946, and it remains one of the most widely fitted hitch brands in North America. The company's stated approach is straightforward: every hitch is tested rigorously so that it performs well beyond published industry standards, a philosophy it markets as Tested Tough. It sits within the Horizon Global towing group alongside Reese, Fulton, Bulldog, Tekonsha, Bargman and Wesbar.
Custom fit is the defining characteristic. Rather than adapting a universal design, Draw-Tite engineers a trailer hitch for a specific make, model and model year, so it bolts to existing frame locations with minimal bumper cutting or drilling. Low-profile designs follow the rear contours and aerodynamic styling of modern vehicles, which matters more than it once did now that rear fascias are shaped and sensor-equipped. Construction is solid all-welded steel for maximum strength, and every hitch meets or exceeds V5 CSA and SAE J684 standards and is backed by a nationwide limited lifetime warranty.
The range spans receiver sizes and classes to suit different loads, from 1-1/4 inch receivers for bike racks, cargo carriers and light trailers up through 2 inch receivers for heavier towing. Front mount hitches add a receiver at the front of the vehicle for winch mounts, snow plows, spare carriers and precise trailer positioning.
The Hidden Hitch series takes concealment further by mounting behind the vehicle's rear fascia, so the vehicle keeps its factory appearance until a removable receiver is fitted. Each is custom designed per make and model for a no-drill installation that does not compromise ground clearance, rated for up to 3,500 pounds gross trailer weight and 350 pounds tongue weight. Matching plug-and-play wiring completes the towing system.
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Draw-Tite® Trailer Hitches | Receiver Hitches
3 compatible vehicles
| Year | Make & Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1980 - 1996 | Ford F-250 | Class 5 Trailer Hitch: 12000 lbs 1,200/12,000 lbs. Weight Carrying (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) 1,700/14,000 lbs. when used with a Weight Distribution Kit (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) Drilling Required Install Time is 45 minutes |
| 1997 | Ford F-250 HD | Class 5 Trailer Hitch: 12000 lbs 1,200/12,000 lbs. Weight Carrying (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) 1,700/14,000 lbs. when used with a Weight Distribution Kit (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) Drilling Required Install Time is 45 minutes |
| 1980 - 1997 | Ford F-350 | Class 5 Trailer Hitch: 12000 lbs 1,200/12,000 lbs. Weight Carrying (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) 1,700/14,000 lbs. when used with a Weight Distribution Kit (tongue weight/gross trailer weight) Drilling Required Install Time is 45 minutes |
The Draw-tite Titan® Class 5 Trailer Hitch, 2-1/2" Square Receiver, Black for Select Ford F-250, Ford F-250 HD, Ford F-350 45502 (Part #DT45502) fits 1980-1996 Ford F-250 models. The 1997 model year is the last year covered by this part number. For newer models, check for an updated version.
Yes, the Draw-tite Titan® Class 5 Trailer Hitch, 2-1/2" Square Receiver, Black for Select Ford F-250, Ford F-250 HD, Ford F-350 45502 (Part #DT45502) is designed to fit the 1980-1996 Ford F-250.
The Draw-tite Titan® Class 5 Trailer Hitch, 2-1/2" Square Receiver, Black for Select Ford F-250, Ford F-250 HD, Ford F-350 45502 (Part #DT45502) fits the following vehicles: 1980-1996 Ford F-250; 1997 Ford F-250 HD; 1980-1997 Ford F-350. Always verify your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
The Draw-tite Titan® Class 5 Trailer Hitch, 2-1/2" Square Receiver, Black for Select Ford F-250, Ford F-250 HD, Ford F-350 45502 (Part #DT45502) Drilling is required for installation. Basic hand tools are typically all you need.
Yes, the 45502 hitch fits Ford F-250 and F-350 models from 1980 to 1997. Check the manufacturer's website for the most up-to-date information on specific application years and trim levels, as fitment may vary.
No. The manual explicitly states this product is not recommended for use on a 1/2 ton vehicle.
You will need a ratchet, torque wrench, 3/4" sockets, safety glasses, a drill, and a 1/2" drill bit. The manual notes that if you do not feel comfortable performing the installation yourself, you should contact a professional installer.
Yes. You must drill eight 1/2" holes into the truck frame using the holes in the brackets as a guide. Do not cut these holes with a torch.
All 1/2" GR5 fasteners must be tightened to 75 Lb.-Ft. (102 N·M) using a torque wrench. Proper torque is needed to keep the hitch secure to the vehicle when towing.
Do not exceed the lower of your towing vehicle manufacturer's rating or: Weight Carrying: 12,000 lbs GVWR with 1,200 lbs tongue weight; Weight Distributing: 14,000 lbs GVWR with 1,700 lbs tongue weight.
Check that all fasteners are tight and the hitch is securely mounted to your vehicle. The manual recommends checking the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened.
The 45502F fastener kit includes: 8 carriage bolts (1/2"-13 x 2.00 GR5), 6 spacers (.250 x 1.5 x 3), 8 conical washers (1/2"), 8 lock washers (1/2"), 8 hex nuts (1/2"-13 GR5), 2 spacers (.250 x .9 x 1.4), and 2 spacers (.25 x 1.43 x 2.32).
Yes, but with a modification. To use the adapter bushing with some 2" weight distributing bars, it will be necessary to sand the corners of the bar to get it into the bushing.
1. Place the hitch up to the frame with the large hole in the hitch flange over the rivet head near the end of the frame, and clamp it in place. 2. Using the holes in the brackets as a guide, drill eight 1/2" holes into the truck frame. 3. Insert a 1/2" carriage bolt with spacers (items 6 and 7) through the rear hole in the frame, and install 1/2" conical washers, lock washers and nuts. 4. Insert 1/2" carriage bolts with spacers (item 2) into the remaining holes, and install 1/2" conical washers, lock washers and nuts. 5. Tighten all 1/2" GR5 fasteners to 75 Lb.-Ft. (102 N·M) with a torque wrench.
The conical washers must be installed with the teeth side against the hitch.
At the rear hole, insert a 1/2" carriage bolt with the small bolt plate (spacer item 6) and the two-hole plate (spacer item 7). Install 1/2" conical washers, lock washers and nuts on the bolt.
At the remaining seven holes, insert 1/2" carriage bolts with the large bolt plates (spacer item 2) down into the holes. Install 1/2" conical washers, lock washers and nuts on the bolts.
If excess sway occurs, take your foot off the gas pedal and hold the steering wheel as steady as possible. Do not apply your brakes and do not speed up.
Load the trailer heavier in front. This helps maintain proper weight distribution and stability while towing.
If the hitch is removed, plug all holes in the trunk pan or other body panels to prevent entry of water and exhaust fumes.
Check the hitch frequently, making sure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened. The manual does not specify an exact interval, but recommends periodic checks to ensure the hitch remains securely mounted to your vehicle.
A hitch or ball which has been damaged should be removed and replaced. Do not continue to use a damaged hitch.
Slow down when towing and never exceed any posted speed limit. Always wear your seatbelt while towing.
Yes. Always wear safety glasses when installing the hitch. Also observe safety precautions when working beneath a vehicle.
The average installation time is 45 minutes for professional installers. If you do not feel comfortable performing this installation on your own or are in need of assistance, please contact a professional installer.
Cequent Performance Products, Inc. offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty to the original consumer purchaser. The warranty covers material defects in both material and workmanship, ordinary wear and tear excepted. The warranty is valid only if products are returned for inspection and testing, the alleged nonconformance is material and not caused by misuse, neglect, wear and tear, improper installation, unsuitable storage, improper repair, alteration, or accident, and the products were installed, maintained and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Product replacement is the sole and exclusive remedy. For warranty claims, contact Cequent Performance Products, Inc. at 47912 Halyard Drive, Suite 100, Plymouth, MI 48170, 1-800-632-3290.
The 45502 hitch complies with safety specifications and requirements for connecting devices and towing systems of the state of New York, V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684.
Check that all fasteners are tight. Use a torque wrench to verify that all 1/2" GR5 fasteners are tightened to 75 Lb.-Ft. (102 N·M). The manual recommends checking the hitch frequently to ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened.
If excess sway occurs, take your foot off the gas pedal and hold the steering wheel as steady as possible. Do not apply your brakes and do not speed up. Ensure the trailer is loaded heavier in front and that you are not exceeding the hitch's towing capacity or your vehicle manufacturer's rating.
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Ordered online. Shipment arrived on time and with all the correct parts. Great customer service and friendly staff. Also, pricing was great!
May 22, 2023
