Hidden Hitch anyone?? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

**smitty62** · 04-09-2004, 11:44 PM

Bought a Hidden Hitch for my '68 SWB (the one goes behind the license plate) and for the life of me, I can't figure how it mounts. The directions say it mounts below the frame, but that doesn't look right and it's too low. Asked the vendor and he says it goes between the frame rails. I can't get it to go there without some major frame mods (not supposed to be any mods-just drill and bolt). Has anyone installed one of these? I need advise from someone who knows from experience.

68 Suburban · 04-09-2004, 11:53 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by smitty62
Bought a Hidden Hitch for my '68 SWB (the one goes behind the license plate) and for the life of me, I can't figure how it mounts. The directions say it mounts below the frame, but that doesn't look right and it's too low. Asked the vendor and he says it goes between the frame rails. I can't get it to go there without some major frame mods (not supposed to be any mods-just drill and bolt). Has anyone installed one of these? I need advise from someone who knows from experience.

I wish I could help you, but I paid a shop $40 to do mine. As I recall, they were not too happy when I came to pick it up, because it took them a lot longer to do it than they figured. But they stuck by the price they gave me.

GMC69 · 04-09-2004, 11:54 PM

I have one for mine that I didn't get around to installing yet since I don't know if I am getting another truck to use in stead of this one.

When you say it needs frame modification to mount it, is it too long??

I know my hitch came a 3 pieces that bolt together. 2 end pieces and the center section.

the end pieces should have the bolt part ( with holes) towards the bottom of the hitch and you bolt it under the frame.

Not sure if it is made the same as mine or not.

boraxman · 04-10-2004, 01:12 AM

I got mine from ECE. Clamped it to the bottom of the frame, drilled a couple new holes, used a coulple existing holes, cake walk.

*Shane* · 04-10-2004, 03:06 AM

I hope it didn't come from AIM. I have seen their version of a "hidden hitch" ... the only thing hidden from view is the refund that they WON'T give ya.

**smitty62** · 04-10-2004, 12:01 PM

I have clamped it to the frame rails as Boraxman advises but it looks out of place and too low. Come to think of it, shouldn't it be marked "Hidden Hitch" on it someplace??

This unit is one piece-not three.

**smitty62** · 04-10-2004, 01:47 PM

Further to the above, here is a pic of what I have clamped to the bottom of the frame. Sorry for small size, but it's all the forum would allow! Need help, advice!

SCOTI · 04-10-2004, 01:56 PM

That's correct. The bottom edge of the hitch is even w/the bottom edge of a sport bumper & the receiver (access hole in the LP box) is about .5 - .75" from the bottom edge of the license plate box.

I just went out & looked @ mine to verify this info. If you want, take a measurement from the bottom of the frame rail to the bottom of the hitch on yours & I'll compare w/mine.

**smitty62** · 04-10-2004, 02:12 PM

Thanks Scotti--I guess that's right but it looks like-----poor engineering ( not what I really wanted to say). The vendor has now verified that it's not a "real Hidden Hitch" and that it mounts as you stated. I paid 'way too much for a jury-rigged counterfeit.

And, guess where it was shipped from? You're right, our "friends" in Orange, Ca.

k5hart · 04-10-2004, 02:58 PM

Smitty,

I just installed mine in Jan./Feb. of this year. From your picture, the location looks correct. I also clamped the hitch in position to the frame and drilled holes. It was a little tougher than I expected, but I was installing it in a Blazer, so I didnt have to option to pull the bed. I purchased mine from ECE. So far, I love it! Here are some pics that might help. I left them big so you can see some detail.

Jason

SCOTI · 04-10-2004, 02:58 PM

Apparently ours mount the same way. I'm pretty sure I got mine from Classic Perf Parts (or possibly ECE).

I feel that mine is hidden though.... you can't tell it's there until you flip the license plate up or crawl under the truck.

Mine looks just like K5hart's.........

k5hart · 04-10-2004, 02:58 PM

2

k5hart · 04-10-2004, 02:59 PM

3

k5hart · 04-10-2004, 03:00 PM

4

k5hart · 04-10-2004, 03:02 PM

This is what I started with. You can see why I love the new set up!

**smitty62** · 04-10-2004, 03:08 PM

OK Guys! That is the kind of info I needed and it looks like it's located right. I still think the hitch was intended for a different vehicle and was "adapted" for this use--normally the tongue weight is carried by the flange setting on top of the frame rail instead of just the bolts.--a much better way of attachment. Thanks again-as usual the board came through!

BTW-K5hart, I'd sure like to know how you got the site to accept those large pics!

moneyguru · 04-10-2004, 07:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by smitty62
BTW-K5hart, I'd sure like to know how you got the site to accept those large pics!

His pics are not hosted on this site, if you open an account at www.photobucket.com, you can paste a link to your pic in your post and have it show up. Because the photo is hosted elsewhere you can post bigger pics.

here is a link to a thread explaining how to do it:

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ht=how+to+post

HTH

MG

guitarornothin · 04-10-2004, 08:00 PM

My dad had one made for his/MY Truck about 5 years ago. and i recently Added a FLIPDOWN Lisence plate holder of a Nova. and it works GREAT no pics now though. it BAD!!!!!!!!!!

GMC69 · 04-11-2004, 12:47 AM

Where would be a good place to get a flip license plate holder from?? Since I already have the hitch ( just have to install it) and am mounting it behind the plate.

boraxman · 04-11-2004, 12:51 AM

ECE has them. Also I believe they are availible through GM.

GMC69 · 04-11-2004, 12:56 AM

I need something located in Canada, but I will ask my friend that works for a GM dealer in the parts department to see what I can get.

WB72 · 04-11-2004, 01:24 AM

I just installed a modified hitch from my 94 truck (a 3 peice hitch). I reversed the side brackets and flipped the center peice. I was able to use 1 exhisting hole, and ground off a rivet that holds a x-member I just had to drill 1 new hole in the frame. It lines up prefectly behind the plate. I was thinking of making a reciever that holds my plate. If I pull a trailer, they won't see the plate anyway.

It only took 2 hours for this even with the brainstorming with my neighbor for a beer.

*Shane* · 04-11-2004, 02:13 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by GMC69
Where would be a good place to get a flip license plate holder from?? Since I already have the hitch ( just have to install it) and am mounting it behind the plate.

try a local salvage yard ... plenty of the larger model cars from the 70's-80's had them ...

I would think you could pick up one really cheap ... compared to a new one.

k5hart · 04-11-2004, 04:41 PM

Smitty - Glad I could help with the pics. I took a lot of the hitch and new gas tank install. Figured they could be helpful someday. MG is right on about the pics. I have them hosted on Photobucket.com.

GMC69 - I got my flip license plate bracket in a kit with the hitch from ECE. But..... it is a GM part. Here is the GM part number - 14083879.

Jason

dinnut · 04-11-2004, 05:40 PM

older cadillacs have the flip up license plate if youre looking in junkyards... they were originally for hiding the gas filler.

04-09-2004, 11:44 PM	#1
smitty62 Registered User Join Date: May 2002 Location: North Carolina Posts: 1,234	Hidden Hitch anyone?? Bought a Hidden Hitch for my '68 SWB (the one goes behind the license plate) and for the life of me, I can't figure how it mounts. The directions say it mounts below the frame, but that doesn't look right and it's too low. Asked the vendor and he says it goes between the frame rails. I can't get it to go there without some major frame mods (not supposed to be any mods-just drill and bolt). Has anyone installed one of these? I need advise from someone who knows from experience. __________________ Stepsides look like real trucks! Smitty

04-09-2004, 11:54 PM	#3
GMC69 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Sudbury, Ontario, Canada Posts: 734	I have one for mine that I didn't get around to installing yet since I don't know if I am getting another truck to use in stead of this one. When you say it needs frame modification to mount it, is it too long?? I know my hitch came a 3 pieces that bolt together. 2 end pieces and the center section. the end pieces should have the bolt part ( with holes) towards the bottom of the hitch and you bolt it under the frame. Not sure if it is made the same as mine or not. __________________ Mike Email: Click here to email me -- 2019 Silvedrado 4x4 1970 Chevy 3/4 ton, 396BB, on air bags

04-10-2004, 01:12 AM	#4
boraxman Keepin an eye out Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: So.Cal Posts: 3,920	I got mine from ECE. Clamped it to the bottom of the frame, drilled a couple new holes, used a coulple existing holes, cake walk. __________________ 1970 Chevy C10 SWB 5.3 1996 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4 2007 Vespa GTS 250 Scooter ZIP 91351

04-10-2004, 12:01 PM	#6
smitty62 Registered User Join Date: May 2002 Location: North Carolina Posts: 1,234	I have clamped it to the frame rails as Boraxman advises but it looks out of place and too low. Come to think of it, shouldn't it be marked "Hidden Hitch" on it someplace?? This unit is one piece-not three. __________________ Stepsides look like real trucks! Smitty Last edited by smitty62; 04-10-2004 at 01:40 PM.

04-10-2004, 01:47 PM	#7
smitty62 Registered User Join Date: May 2002 Location: North Carolina Posts: 1,234	Hidden hitch, cont'd. Further to the above, here is a pic of what I have clamped to the bottom of the frame. Sorry for small size, but it's all the forum would allow! Need help, advice! __________________ Stepsides look like real trucks! Smitty

04-10-2004, 03:06 AM	#5
Shane Account Suspended Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: over yonder Posts: 14,270	I hope it didn't come from AIM. I have seen their version of a "hidden hitch" ... the only thing hidden from view is the refund that they WON'T give ya.

04-10-2004, 01:56 PM	#8
SCOTI Registered User Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: DALLAS,TX Posts: 22,080	That's correct. The bottom edge of the hitch is even w/the bottom edge of a sport bumper & the receiver (access hole in the LP box) is about .5 - .75" from the bottom edge of the license plate box. I just went out & looked @ mine to verify this info. If you want, take a measurement from the bottom of the frame rail to the bottom of the hitch on yours & I'll compare w/mine. __________________ 67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Recycle 89CCDually-Driver/Tow Truck 99CCSWB Driver All Fleetsides @rattlecankustoms in IG Building a small, high rpm engine with the perfect bore, stroke and rod ratio is very impressive. It's like a highly skilled Morrocan sword fighter with a Damascus Steel Scimitar..... *Cubic inches is like Indiana Jones with a cheap pistol.*

04-10-2004, 02:12 PM	#9
smitty62 Registered User Join Date: May 2002 Location: North Carolina Posts: 1,234	Thanks Scotti--I guess that's right but it looks like-----poor engineering ( not what I really wanted to say). The vendor has now verified that it's not a "real Hidden Hitch" and that it mounts as you stated. I paid 'way too much for a jury-rigged counterfeit. And, guess where it was shipped from? You're right, our "friends" in Orange, Ca. __________________ Stepsides look like real trucks! Smitty

04-10-2004, 02:58 PM	#10
k5hart Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charleston, South Carolina Posts: 1,370	Smitty, I just installed mine in Jan./Feb. of this year. From your picture, the location looks correct. I also clamped the hitch in position to the frame and drilled holes. It was a little tougher than I expected, but I was installing it in a Blazer, so I didnt have to option to pull the bed. I purchased mine from ECE. So far, I love it! Here are some pics that might help. I left them big so you can see some detail. Jason __________________ 2006 Silverado CCSB, 1939 Ford Sedan, 1962 BelAir Wagon, 1976 Vega Panel Charleston, South Carolina

04-10-2004, 02:58 PM	#12
k5hart Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charleston, South Carolina Posts: 1,370	2 __________________ 2006 Silverado CCSB, 1939 Ford Sedan, 1962 BelAir Wagon, 1976 Vega Panel Charleston, South Carolina

04-10-2004, 02:59 PM	#13
k5hart Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charleston, South Carolina Posts: 1,370	3 __________________ 2006 Silverado CCSB, 1939 Ford Sedan, 1962 BelAir Wagon, 1976 Vega Panel Charleston, South Carolina

04-10-2004, 03:00 PM	#14
k5hart Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charleston, South Carolina Posts: 1,370	4 __________________ 2006 Silverado CCSB, 1939 Ford Sedan, 1962 BelAir Wagon, 1976 Vega Panel Charleston, South Carolina

04-10-2004, 03:02 PM	#15
k5hart Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charleston, South Carolina Posts: 1,370	This is what I started with. You can see why I love the new set up! __________________ 2006 Silverado CCSB, 1939 Ford Sedan, 1962 BelAir Wagon, 1976 Vega Panel Charleston, South Carolina

04-10-2004, 03:08 PM	#16
smitty62 Registered User Join Date: May 2002 Location: North Carolina Posts: 1,234	OK Guys! That is the kind of info I needed and it looks like it's located right. I still think the hitch was intended for a different vehicle and was "adapted" for this use--normally the tongue weight is carried by the flange setting on top of the frame rail instead of just the bolts.--a much better way of attachment. Thanks again-as usual the board came through! BTW-K5hart, I'd sure like to know how you got the site to accept those large pics! __________________ Stepsides look like real trucks! Smitty

04-10-2004, 08:00 PM	#18
guitarornothin RUNN over AGAIN!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Big Spring, Texas Posts: 505	My dad had one made for his/MY Truck about 5 years ago. and i recently Added a FLIPDOWN Lisence plate holder of a Nova. and it works GREAT no pics now though. it BAD!!!!!!!!!! __________________ 67-72 TRUCKS ROCK 70 SWB shaved and a 72 front clip.and a poly tank. Peep mirrors and a BIG BLOCK 468 in the making. XNXNXNXNXNXNXNXNXNXNX ,/. EMAIL ME HERE!, Dont pm me please ,/.



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04-11-2004, 12:47 AM	#19
GMC69 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Sudbury, Ontario, Canada Posts: 734	Where would be a good place to get a flip license plate holder from?? Since I already have the hitch ( just have to install it) and am mounting it behind the plate. __________________ Mike Email: Click here to email me -- 2019 Silvedrado 4x4 1970 Chevy 3/4 ton, 396BB, on air bags

04-11-2004, 12:51 AM	#20
boraxman Keepin an eye out Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: So.Cal Posts: 3,920	ECE has them. Also I believe they are availible through GM. __________________ 1970 Chevy C10 SWB 5.3 1996 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4 2007 Vespa GTS 250 Scooter ZIP 91351

04-11-2004, 12:56 AM	#21
GMC69 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Sudbury, Ontario, Canada Posts: 734	I need something located in Canada, but I will ask my friend that works for a GM dealer in the parts department to see what I can get. __________________ Mike Email: Click here to email me -- 2019 Silvedrado 4x4 1970 Chevy 3/4 ton, 396BB, on air bags

04-11-2004, 01:24 AM	#22
WB72 Before and After Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Leduc, Alberta CANADA Posts: 632	I just installed a modified hitch from my 94 truck (a 3 peice hitch). I reversed the side brackets and flipped the center peice. I was able to use 1 exhisting hole, and ground off a rivet that holds a x-member I just had to drill 1 new hole in the frame. It lines up prefectly behind the plate. I was thinking of making a reciever that holds my plate. If I pull a trailer, they won't see the plate anyway. It only took 2 hours for this even with the brainstorming with my neighbor for a beer. __________________ Not Grandpa's C-20 anymore... 383 Stroker 425HP, 485Ft/Lbs Lowered 3.5" Front / 5" Rear 66,000 miles. Alberta, CANADA Last edited by WB72; 04-11-2004 at 01:26 AM.

04-11-2004, 04:41 PM	#24
k5hart Registered User Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Charleston, South Carolina Posts: 1,370	Smitty - Glad I could help with the pics. I took a lot of the hitch and new gas tank install. Figured they could be helpful someday. MG is right on about the pics. I have them hosted on Photobucket.com. GMC69 - I got my flip license plate bracket in a kit with the hitch from ECE. But..... it is a GM part. Here is the GM part number - 14083879. Jason __________________ 2006 Silverado CCSB, 1939 Ford Sedan, 1962 BelAir Wagon, 1976 Vega Panel Charleston, South Carolina

04-11-2004, 05:40 PM	#25
dinnut Registered User Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: missouri city, tx Posts: 4,486	older cadillacs have the flip up license plate if youre looking in junkyards... they were originally for hiding the gas filler. __________________ 70 longbed 496/th400/Ford 9"

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