Tow 8k, Need Weight Dist Hitch?

[MtnMan]

Astroboy,
I'm interested in learning more about your additional flanges on your hitch to boost the tow rating.
How did you find a shop that could re-badge after the work? Is this common to most shops?
I've been considering swapping a heavier GM-based hitch to raise the towing capacity, but your solution makes a lot of sense and seems easier.
Thanks, Sean

[Astroboy]

OEM hitch is bolt-on, similar to the photo.

You must forgive me for my touchpad finger-painting ...

Blue represents Hummer's ladder frame.
Red represents additional square tubings and gusset plates that are fabbed and welded by my local hitch shop (Hitch Master Inc. in Van Nuys, CA, a couple of nice guys w/ welders).

When I bought my H2, I made sure not to pick stock air suspension. I felt that it's too-complicated system that I didn't want to look after. Instead, I opted to install aftermarket supplemental airbags designed to be inserted within the coils. I just bicycle-pump them as needed, when I tow.

I think H2 makes a nice tow vehicle — more than the likes of Tahoe or Expedition because of its short overhangs that mitigates the leverage force of "trailer sway".

My impression was... H2 has somewhat-soft rear suspension which needed to be stiffened. Other factors in H2 (engine, trans, axles) are good to go, because they all come from 3/4ton parts bin...

[Astroboy]

Originally Posted by MtnMan

How did you find a shop that could re-badge after the work? Is this common to most shops?

I have no idea what the rules are...

My H2's GCWR remains the same, just like it has been from the factory. This is the sticker by my door, the rating for the VEHICLE. Front axle is rated to support up to 4000 lb. Rear, up to 5000lb. You can't change that, unless you swap axles.

But, I have a new sticker with increased rating on my hitch receiver, which I assume it applies to HITCH ONLY. Just like, nothing is stopping you to buy Class5 hitch receiver with 15000 lb sticker and install it on your truck.

[kalantar]

defintiely get the weight dist hitch...