I agree that you wouldn't want to hang anything on the bumper.

We just installed a hitch on our '88 GL. It's a Class I, cost $145.00 and
came from http://www.hitch-web.com/.  Pretty cool idea, it clamps onto the
tie downs under the rear bumper.  These tie downs attach directly to the
frame and since they hold the Vanagon down during the ocean voyage to the
US, they are substantial. The hitch attachment to the tie downs are
over-engineered also.  The entire hitch goes on or off with two huge bolts.
I recommend it.

Gary

----- Original Message -----
From: James Flanigan <vanagon40@hotmail.com>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, June 17, 2000 12:51 PM
Subject: Re: Step bumper hitch

> No way would I attach anything to the bumper.  I've had mine off to
> straighten it, and it is not much thicker than a tin can.
>
> I know nothing about this replacement bumper, but found it posted on the
> list a while back.  Scroll down the page and you'll find it with a two
inch
> (2") receiver for $240.  I don't much care for the looks, or I might try
it.
>
> http://www.fastforward.ca/vanagon/default.htm
>
> If you are bound and determined to attatch a trailer to the bumper, PLEASE
> attach safety chains to somehere solid to protect the rest of us.
>
> Good luck.
>
> Vanagon40
>
>
> >From: Jeff <btlbug@bright.net>
> >Reply-To: Jeff <btlbug@bright.net>
> >To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> >Subject: Step bumper hitch
> >Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2000 19:18:13 -0400
> >
> >I have an 84 vanagon.  Has anyone ever drilled through the bumper of a
> >Vanagon and bolted a step bumper towing hitch to it.  Would this be safe?
I
> >would only be pulling a small trailor.  Any thoughts please.  Thanks,
Jeff
>
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