I just ran into a trailer hitch socket, what should I do?

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Aug 7, 2007 | 06:05 PM

SL-ML-C

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2000 MR-S daily driver, 1997 SL600 weekend fun, 1999 ML430 tow vehicle

I just ran into a trailer hitch socket, what should I do?

hello all, This is my first time actually really posting on this thread, and I was curious, I accidentally ran into a trailer hitch towing package on a dodge ram 1500 pickup, and the damage seemed to be mostly on my end (thank goodness) but after I pulled off the bumper, it seems that it hit square in the middle of a large steel beam, and it's forced the two ends of the bar, and in turn, the bumper to be pushed out, whats the best way or place I should go to get this fixed (or is it worth it at this point?) and about how much would it cost to get it looking like normal again. one more thought, does this throw any other vital systems out of whack?

I drive a 1999 white/grey ML430 with 95,xxx miles on it.

Thanks for your time!

Aug 8, 2007 | 12:40 AM

E55texas

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04 e55

put a rope around the bar where it is bent, tie it to a tree and bend it back

Aug 8, 2007 | 09:03 PM

SL-ML-C

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2000 MR-S daily driver, 1997 SL600 weekend fun, 1999 ML430 tow vehicle

thanks for your reply

would that not damage anything on the truck? I am just concerned I would mess something up

Aug 8, 2007 | 09:38 PM

E55texas

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04 e55

I've done it on a chevy truck before no problems. Just ease on the gas. dont tie it up and then haul ***. Or buy a new one

Aug 9, 2007 | 02:14 AM

SL-ML-C

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2000 MR-S daily driver, 1997 SL600 weekend fun, 1999 ML430 tow vehicle

Thanks, I will see what kind of cable/rope I can find

Aug 13, 2007 | 10:12 AM

benzeboy

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ml320 & c240

Take it to a shop and have them fix it. You may need a new bumper. I might
try the tree thing if it was a chevy.

Aug 13, 2007 | 06:15 PM

SL-ML-C

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2000 MR-S daily driver, 1997 SL600 weekend fun, 1999 ML430 tow vehicle

Thanks for your continued input...

I am always inclined to take things to a shop and have it done by "professionals" however, since my truck is worth so little (about $8,500), is it worth putting $2,000+ into it, especially when it is entirely drivable as-is (assuming that the alignment is still on?) I have attached pictures of what i've done (d'oh) maybe that will help. also the bumper is in like-new condition, it was just bent-in. the license plate, and bracket took the brunt of the cosmetic damage (the only good part of having a front plate I think) I am thinking of having a estimate done, however, I am not looking forward to the amount, out of curiosity, looking at the damage, any ideas on what that would cost to fix?

-Erik

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