I did a similar thing to create a 1 1/4" receiver hitch.  I didn't extend
the mounts or move the bumper out.  I cut a hole in the rear valance for the
length of the receiver tube.  I notched my bumper to clear the receiver tube
which extends about 1/2 inch past the bumper.  My set up cost $100 including
the slide in thingy.  I would in no way consider it to rated at 5,000 lbs.
but it is very stout for what it is.  I think the shop would probably charge
a little more if they did another one.

Patrick

----- Original Message -----
From: "Mark Keller" <tyler@ISLANDNET.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, February 05, 2001 8:50 AM
Subject: Re: Favorite Modifications 5000lb Capacity Hitch

> The Fabrication shop MIG welded the entire seam of the original bumper
> mounted.
>
> Added a extension to the end of the mount so that it goes further into
> the rear frame and addition bolt was added on each side, for a total of
> six.
>
> A 2" x 2" OD square tube, I don't recall the wall thickness, was welded
> between the two bumper mounts, with some additional gusseting.
>
> The trick was that 5" or so is need to attach the receiver without
> protruding from the bumper.  So the entire bumper was slid out 3/4".
> Some additional work to relocate the sheet metal mount.
>
> As I recall this costs in the $500 dollar range to have done.
>
> Sincerely,
>
> Mark Keller
> 91 Carat
>