KosherBenz

I need a hitch for my 2013 GL450. Should I go the dealer route or just hit up a Uhaul shop?

Mike450

Had mine done at uhaul.

Requires rear bumper cover and exhaust tip removal, which isn't anything extraordinary.

chewychiu

I was thinking about that too. Do you have any pics? Much appreciated.

Mike450

Pics of install? No, I wasn't there.

chewychiu

Oh no, pics of the final product.

KosherBenz

Ok so The dealer quoted me 2800 for hitch. Wow.... Uhaul wanted $487.

Says its a 3500lb hitch. See the attachment.


I would think these trucks could pull more than that. My DD sedan is 4200 lbs. So I cant even tow that? Geezzzz

cadetdrivr

Sure they can. The GL towing capability is 7500lbs with the factory hitch.

Meanwhile the limit for the aftermarket hitch is 3500lb. (As a bolt-on it's missing the beefy structure that MB installs.)

IMHO, this is why anybody considering a new GL/GLS should just automatically order the hitch and anybody shopping a used one should look for a factory installed unit unless you just need one to attach a bike rack.

Mike450

There is another curt hitch that rates the same 7500lbs. That is the one I have.

#13190

chewychiu

Thanks for the pic @Mike450
I just need to order one and commit to the day and time for installation.

robalo220

I don't see the wiring harness that MB includes on factory install for $550. Yes to get 7500 lb install it will likely cost you $2k but you get the harness for trailer lights, etc.
Good luck

Mike450

Light hookup kit is under $100. I only use the hitch for bike and cargo racks.

But yes, the $500 factory option is well worth it. You also get the anti sway control, which is a fortune if you want to add it aftermarket.

Unfortunately for me, my truck had all my prefered options, excluding the hitch, and was on the lot.

robalo220

Yep, I passed on a couple of GL models that were minus the factory hitch and couldn't make the deal work due to the extra cost to add one.

Mike450

Yes, I rarely have the need for towing and when I do, I have access to a F350 diesel.
I knew this hitch was going to be delegated to light duty and it's coming off when the truck goes back on lease.

Next one will have factory hitch.

KosherBenz

The curt says "Excluding Active Curve System". That's the headlights that turn right?

chewychiu

I'm only looking for this aftermarket hitch so I can install a bike rack in the rear. I won't be doing any sorts of towing. Does the Uhaul hitch get rusty after awhile?

cadetdrivr

Confusingly, the phrase "active curve" is used for two different systems:
I'm gonna assume that the Curt system is incompatible with #2 due to the additional suspension hardware.

Mike450

If I put a cap on the end, no. It's powder coat black.

KosherBenz

Well uhaul just said that they will not install their 2014 hitch that is rated for 7500 lbs on my 2013.

fabbrisd1

This link takes you to the Curt model for your 2013 - including video - incl install instructions - the 2014 hitch is a different bolt-on since 2014 forward frame was strenghtned/left for later hitch install for full Class III.

The 2013 Class II is Class III receiver - but the mounting is jockeyed for '13's ..

http://www.curtmfg.com/HitchLookup/f...nz&model=GL450

KosherBenz

Realistic, I know it says 3500 lbs, but would any of you dare to tow dolly a 4100lb sedan?

fabbrisd1

"Dare" - there are those that tow over-weight all the time - personally I am not one of those guys..