Heavy duty Class 5 Hitch Receivers with 2 Inch Receiver Tubes from Buyers Products will handle loads from 12,000 lb. to 17,000 lb., depending on your vehicle make and model. They all feature a corrosion-resistant black powder-coated finish for long life. The hitch receivers come in a variety of sizes for easy installation on Dodge/RAM, Ford and GM vehicles, including cutaway service bodies. Most models come with installation hardware (see specifications). Hitch receivers accept 2 in. hitches and accessories and come complete with a 5/8 in. hitch pin with cotter.
Specifications
| Application Summary | 1996-2018+ GM?? Express/Savana |
|---|---|
| Class | Class V |
| Color | Black |
| Depth (in.) | 24.10 |
| Finish | Powder-Coat |
| Height (in.) | 4.75 |
| M.G.T.W. (lbs.) | 12,000 |
| M.V.L. (lbs.) | 1,200 |
| Make | GM?? |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Model | Express/Savana |
| Mount Type | Bolt-on |
| Receiver Tube Length (in.) | 7.00 |
| Receiver Tube Size (in.) | 2.00 |
| Style | Cab & Chassis |
| Width (in.) | 39.54 |
| Year | 1996-2018+ |
The Class 5 Hitch Receiver with a 2-inch receiver tube for GM Express and Savana models spanning from 1996 to 2020 (with specific fitment verified for 1996-2018+ as per detailed specifications) represents the pinnacle of heavy-duty towing solutions. Engineered by Buyers Products, a recognized leader in truck and trailer equipment, this hitch is designed to meet the rigorous demands of commercial, industrial, and heavy recreational towing applications. Its robust construction, precise engineering, and superior finish ensure not only maximum towing capacity but also enduring reliability and safety.
Understanding the classification of hitches is paramount for safe and effective towing. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J684 standard defines hitch classes based on their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and Tongue Weight (TW) capacities. A Class 5 hitch, such as this model, is designated for the most demanding towing tasks. While lower classes like Class 1 (2,000 lbs GTW) are suitable for light loads, and Class 3 (up to 8,000 lbs GTW) covers many recreational towing needs, Class 5 elevates the capability significantly. This particular hitch receiver boasts an impressive Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (M.G.T.W.) of 12,000 lbs. and a Maximum Vertical Load (M.V.L.), or tongue weight, of 1,200 lbs. These specifications highlight its suitability for hauling extremely heavy loads, often exceeding what standard light-duty vehicles can manage. For specific configurations, particularly with weight distribution systems, some Class 5 hitches can extend capabilities up to 17,000 lbs GTW, depending on the vehicle's inherent chassis strength and manufacturer-specified limits. It is always critical to adhere to the lowest rating among all components in the towing system—the vehicle's tow rating, the hitch rating, and the ball mount rating—to ensure safety and compliance.
The 2-inch receiver tube is a critical feature, establishing a universal standard for heavy-duty towing accessories. This dimension, measuring 2.00 inches by 2.00 inches, is widely adopted across the towing industry, ensuring broad compatibility with a vast array of ball mounts, weight distribution hitches, pintle hook combinations, and specialized attachments. The robust nature of a 2-inch receiver tube inherently signifies strength and resilience, capable of handling the significant leverage and forces exerted by heavy trailers. The receiver tube length of 7.00 inches provides ample insertion depth for accessories, ensuring a secure and stable connection, minimizing slack and enhancing overall towing dynamics. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 5/8-inch hitch pin with cotter facilitates immediate, secure attachment of your chosen hitch accessory, simplifying the setup process and providing a dependable locking mechanism.
This hitch receiver is specifically engineered for the GM Express and Savana full-size vans and cutaway chassis, covering model years from 1996 to 2020. This extensive application range speaks to the consistent frame architecture of these vehicles over decades, a testament to their enduring design for commercial and fleet operations. GM Express and Savana vans are workhorses, frequently deployed as utility vehicles, service vans, delivery fleets, and shuttle buses. Their sturdy body-on-frame construction makes them ideal candidates for heavy towing. The "Cab & Chassis" style designation in the specifications further emphasizes its design suitability for cutaway models, where the vehicle is typically upfitted with specialized bodies for various commercial purposes, such as box trucks, ambulances, or other service body configurations. For these applications, a robust, frame-mounted hitch is not just a convenience but an essential component for operational effectiveness. The precise vehicle-specific design ensures optimal fitment to the frame, integrating seamlessly with the vehicle's structural integrity to distribute towing forces effectively and prevent undue stress on any single point. This attention to application detail is crucial for maintaining vehicle warranty and ensuring long-term structural health.
The choice of material and construction method for a heavy-duty hitch receiver directly impacts its performance and longevity. This Buyers Products hitch is constructed from high-grade carbon steel, known for its exceptional tensile strength, yield strength, and fatigue resistance. Carbon steel is a preferred material in structural applications where high load-bearing capacity and durability are paramount. The manufacturing process likely involves precision laser cutting or plasma cutting of steel plates, followed by expert welding to form the multi-component assembly. The bolt-on mounting type, as indicated in the specifications, offers significant advantages. Unlike weld-on hitches, bolt-on installations typically require no specialized welding equipment or expertise, making them more accessible for professional installers and even experienced DIY enthusiasts. The design of a bolt-on hitch involves specific mounting points that align with pre-existing holes in the vehicle's frame, ensuring a factory-like fit and robust mechanical connection. This method distributes towing forces across designated structural points, maximizing safety and minimizing the risk of frame distortion under extreme loads. The precision engineering that goes into these dimensions – Depth (24.10 in.), Height (4.75 in.), Width (39.54 in.) – ensures that the hitch fits perfectly within the vehicle's undercarriage envelope, without interfering with other components, exhaust systems, or spare tire access, which is often a critical consideration for commercial vehicles.
Environmental protection and long-term durability are addressed through the corrosion-resistant black powder-coated finish. Powder coating is a superior finishing process compared to traditional liquid painting, offering enhanced protection against a multitude of environmental aggressors. The process involves electrostatically applying a dry powder to the steel surface, which is then cured under heat to form a hard, durable layer. This finish creates a significantly thicker and more uniform coating that is highly resistant to chipping, scratching, fading, and, critically, corrosion. Given that hitch receivers are exposed to road salt, moisture, gravel, and harsh weather conditions, a robust anti-corrosion barrier is essential for maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the component over its lifespan. The black finish provides a professional, understated look that complements any vehicle, while its resilience ensures that the hitch performs optimally year after year, even in the most demanding operational environments.
The maximum capacities, M.G.T.W. of 12,000 lbs. and M.V.L. of 1,200 lbs., are critical performance metrics. M.G.T.W. refers to the maximum combined weight of the trailer and its cargo that the hitch is rated to tow. M.V.L. (Maximum Vertical Load), often called tongue weight, is the downward force exerted by the trailer coupler onto the hitch receiver. Maintaining the correct tongue weight—typically 10-15% of the GTW for conventional trailers—is vital for stable and safe towing. An inadequate tongue weight can lead to trailer sway, while excessive tongue weight can overload the tow vehicle's rear axle, affecting steering and braking. For trailers approaching the 12,000 lb. mark, such as large utility trailers, multi-car haulers, heavy construction equipment trailers, or substantial enclosed cargo trailers, this Class 5 hitch provides the necessary structural integrity. For applications where maximizing both stability and capacity is paramount, particularly with heavier loads, the use of a weight distribution system is highly recommended and often necessary to safely achieve the upper end of a Class 5 hitch's capability. These systems work by distributing the tongue weight more evenly across all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, restoring lost front axle weight and enhancing overall handling.
Installation ease and specific component dimensions play a significant role in user satisfaction and operational readiness. The phrase "easy installation" for a bolt-on hitch implies a design where mounting holes align precisely with the vehicle's frame, and the process can typically be completed with common hand tools, though power tools are often preferred for efficiency. The detailed dimensions provided—Depth (24.10 in.), Height (4.75 in.), Width (39.54 in.)—are not merely numbers; they represent the culmination of extensive design and testing to ensure a flawless fit. These precise measurements account for clearances around fuel tanks, exhaust systems, wiring harnesses, and other undercarriage components specific to the GM Express/Savana chassis. While "most models come with installation hardware," it is always prudent to consult the specific product documentation and specifications to confirm what is included, ensuring all necessary bolts, nuts, and washers are available for a secure attachment. Proper installation is critical; users should always follow the manufacturer's torque specifications for all fasteners to prevent loosening during operation and ensure maximum safety. For those less experienced with vehicle modifications or heavy equipment installation, professional installation is always a recommended option.
The versatility of a 2-inch receiver is another key advantage. Beyond traditional ball mounts, the industry standard 2-inch opening accommodates a wide range of accessories that significantly expand the utility of the GM Express/Savana. This includes not only various types of drawbars for different trailer heights and coupler types but also specialized equipment such as pintle hook attachments for military or heavy-duty agricultural trailers, weight distribution hitches for improved stability and load leveling, fifth-wheel hitches (when combined with appropriate frame mounts for specific chassis applications), bicycle racks, cargo carriers, and even winch mounts. This adaptability transforms the vehicle from a simple hauler into a multi-functional transport and utility platform, maximizing its return on investment, particularly for commercial fleets.
Buyers Products has established itself as a reputable manufacturer in the truck and trailer equipment industry, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and durability. Choosing a hitch from Buyers Products means investing in a component that has undergone rigorous design, engineering, and testing processes. Their adherence to industry standards, material quality control, and precision manufacturing ensures that each hitch meets or exceeds performance expectations. This dedication translates into a product that delivers reliable performance under demanding conditions, contributing to the safety and efficiency of towing operations.
In conclusion, the Class 5 Hitch Receiver with a 2-inch receiver tube for GM Express/Savana (1996-2020/2018+) is an indispensable tool for anyone requiring maximum towing capability. With its robust carbon steel construction, 12,000 lbs M.G.T.W., 1,200 lbs M.V.L., and corrosion-resistant powder-coat finish, it is engineered for extreme durability and unwavering performance. Its vehicle-specific, bolt-on design ensures a precise fit and straightforward installation on a wide range of GM commercial and recreational vehicles, including specialized cutaway service bodies. From heavy equipment transport to large recreational trailers, this hitch provides the foundation for secure, reliable, and high-capacity towing, embodying the strength and quality synonymous with Buyers Products. Invest in this premium hitch receiver to unlock the full towing potential of your GM Express or Savana, ensuring safety and efficiency for all your demanding applications.
