Towing capability with this Smittybilt bumper

MikeSD · May 27, 2014

I'm scheduled to have this bumper installed this week:

http://www.4wd.com/Jeep-Bumpers-Jeep-Tire-Carriers/XRC-Armor-Rear-Bumper-with-Hitch-and-Tire-Carrier.aspx?t_c=64&t_s=26&t_pt=3486&t_pn=S%2fB76856

But something I read on this site (question/answer) that suggested the hitch is more for "recovery point" than "towing". Which makes me question whether or not this would be a good bumper, if towing was important.

It's going on an 08 Rubicon, 4 door, and towing is something I will be doing. I plan to get an M416 trailer, to be towed with my Jeep.

Anyone have any experience with this bumper and it's suitability to tow, with the integrated hitch? I see no tow specification for this bumper but other similar SB bumpers are careful to specify "class III" towing. And with the "Answer" to the "Question" it made me question the suitability for towing.

XTJake · May 27, 2014

There aren't too many after market bumpers that are tow rated. That is an expensive thing to do and opens the company up to liability. If towing is important to you, I would look for a tow rated bumper, or a bumper with a cut out that allows you to use a factory or factory style Hitch.

Let me know if you have questions or would like a quote on anything!

-Ryan

ronjenx · May 27, 2014

In the site video the guy points to the hitch and calls it a Class III.
A call to Smittybilt verified it is a Class III hitch, and does not change the vehicle's OEM tow rating.

MikeSD · May 27, 2014

ronjenx said:
In the site video the guy points to the hitch and calls it a Class III.
A call to Smitty Built verified it is a Class III hitch, and does not change the vehicle's OEM tow rating.

Thanks. Missed that in the video.

Totallytwisted · May 28, 2014

I tow my 4300 lbs boat and trailer with that bumper on my 14 sport 4Dr and have had no trouble at all.

Jonathanjr1 · May 28, 2014

Class iii hitches are rated for up to 6000lbs gtw and 600lbs tounge weight.

MikeSD · May 28, 2014

Thanks all. I feel better about the bumper now. I did call the dealer after I posted this and while he didn't specify a certified limit, he did say that it will meet or exceed the stock hitch.

I will also look for a tag on the bumper, to see if one is on it.

Towing capability with this Smittybilt bumper

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