Ok I know it's a fairly simple question however I need a new hitch because I had to torch the old one off because of issues with it rusting, etc. I really like the hidden hitch design I want something that is very discrete. I was looking at the Curt hitches and I really like that one but would like to get some other opinions. I really don't want another Reese. Thanks guys

 

Well Reese, Hidden Hitch and Draw Tite are all the same company. I got a factory one fro the jy that ideally Ike b/c it has a bracket that tied the center of the hitch into the body. Don't know if any other hitches do that. Probably nota huge deal but every little bit helps.

 

I have a Curt - its not exactly hidden, but then I think that would be hard without a lot work fitting it. The Curt was hard enough due to rust everywhere. It did come with a nice fitting kit that made it as easy as it could be given the rust...

 

My first hitch was purchased from Jeep and had the (2) center mount Torx in addition to the (8) bolts through the frame rails. This hitch rusted over time and appeared to be flakes or layers of metal. When it broke, I had the inspection garage remove it. I don't know who made it, but I wasn't happy. It did come with nut strips that went inside the frame rails that made installation easier. IIRC, I had to pull the bumper to install the torx in the center.


I just bought a hitch for my '96 SE and it is a Curt. They offer both round tube and square tube, but I opted for the square. It fits well, but you have to fish individual pieces of metal and nuts up through the frame rail. This can be done without pulling the bumper ('96), but I would have preferred nut strips.

 

get a CURT. USA made and its beefy. i bought the nut strips from JCR offroad since i wanted something strong for the bolts. no bolt fishing required.
JCR nut strips

 

Yeah I really want the curt hitch? So if I have this right I just buy those nut strips and install those and then the curt hitch will bolt directly to those? How hard is it to install the nut strips? I really do not want to remove the rear bumper. Thanks for all the help and yes I will be going with the square tube as well.

 

The rear of the frame is open towards the bumper, so you just push the nut strip through the opening and line up the holes in the frame and nut strip. Lift the hitch into place, and put the bolts in.

Having an extra set of hands to help lift and hold the hitch would be nice, but I did mine by myself in my driveway.

 

Another vote for the Curt. Tucks up nice and tight and well built.