Factory Hitch Strength?

[CJAKE7]

I have an '85 CJ7 w/ a factory hitch. Owners before me bolted a 2" receiver onto it. Is this strong enough to be used as a tow point?
If not has anyone beefed up their factory hitch to be used in all recovery situations? I would love to see pics. I want to tow a small trailer with it as well. If I have to go with an aftermarket receiver I will, would just like to keep it stock if it is strong enough.

 

[Torxhead]

As I recall, the later model CJ tow hitch setup is rated at 2000 lbs. Years ago I even mounted a tow hook on that drop hitch, it was kinda so-so. I later went to a piece of angle iron which is also tied into the frame via 4 angle brackets:

 

[PaRenegade]

Just to clarify, your not talking about the factory draw bar hitch are you?

 

[CJAKE7]

Thanks for the pic Torxhead!! That is what I am looking for. Did you through bolt on to the frame rails?

PaRenegade - Yes, that is what I am talking about.

 

[PaRenegade]

This is the factory draw bar. Ignore the clevises and spare tire support brackets. These are for light towing and not suppose to be for recovery. It's only a class 1 hitch. The receiver type hitches are class 3. So it depends on what you'll be towing. I towed a 4'x6' Jartran (like Uhaul) covered trailer from SoCal. to Pa. without a problem. I also towed a 6x12 trailer with 4-wheelers on it on occasion without issues.

edit: I found a thread that may help you.
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f8/factory-hitch-1098552/index2.html

 

[Torxhead]

CJAKE7, This is a pic of how my 3" angle iron hitch mount is attached to the frame. It is a kit purchased from Currie Enterprises, I am not sure if it is still available, but could easily be made. It is a piece of angle, 4 of them, attached to the frame with sleeves behind those grade 8 bolts thru oem holes for strength. There are a number of outfits that produce heavy duty bumpers and tire racks, I would think they would have a similar setup to attach their stuff.

 

[CJAKE7]

Thanks for all your help guys!! Now I have to decide, do I put money towards a bumper/hitch or continue to save awhile for 4:10 gears(which are desperately needed).

 

[Scooter402]

...These are for light towing and not suppose to be for recovery....

Heh....I'm glad I found that out now. That might explain why mine is a little bent.

Part of the mounting hardware that holds this factory bar on (at least for mine) bolts on the rear shackle hangers, too. Now I REALLY feel like I should look into mine, as I can see that my bolts (specifically those bolting on the shackles under the draw bar) are a little crooked. I used to use it as a recovery point when I was mud racing....Hmmm.... ruh-roh, Raggy...

 

[Scooter402]

Thanks for all your help guys!! Now I have to decide, do I put money towards a bumper/hitch or continue to save awhile for 4:10 gears(which are desperately needed).

If it were me, and I knew I might not be towing much for a while, I'd go for the gears first.

 

[CJAKE7]

Can that hitch handle 1/2 a cord of oak firewood? That's what my trailer holds.

 

[Scooter402]

You'll have no problem with that, if that's all you'll be hauling.