We researched and compared the top hitch plates designed specifically for dump trucks. Our evaluation is based on manufacturer specifications, industry towing standards, and aggregated owner feedback from hundreds of users. Whether you need a heavy-duty plate for a tri-axle dump or a lighter option for a single-axle, this guide will help you choose the right one for safe and reliable towing.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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CURT 31040 Class 5 Trailer Hitch Receiver Top Pick Class 5, 2-inch receiver, 20,000 lbs GTW, 3,000 lbs TW |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3500 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch Plate Best 5th Wheel Plate 5th wheel plate, 20,000 lbs GTW, 5,000 lbs pin weight |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Reese Towpower 74036 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Best Value Class 4, 2-inch receiver, 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Draw-Tite 75004 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Compact Design Class 4, 2-inch receiver, 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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CURT 16310 6-Inch Drop/5-Inch Rise Trailer Hitch Plate Adjustable Drop Adjustable drop/rise, 2-inch receiver, 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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TorkLift 2650 Adjustable Pintle Hitch Plate Pintle Option Pintle hitch plate, 2-inch receiver, 16,000 lbs GTW, 2,000 lbs TW |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Roadmaster 1550 Adjustable Tow Bar Base Plate Kit Tow Bar Base Tow bar base plate, 2-inch receiver, 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs TW |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. CURT 31040 Class 5 Trailer Hitch Receiver: Top Pick
The CURT 31040 is a Class 5 hitch receiver that we found to be a top performer based on manufacturer specs and owner feedback. It offers a high gross trailer weight rating of 20,000 lbs and a tongue weight of 3,000 lbs, making it suitable for heavy-duty towing with dump trucks. The hitch is constructed from solid steel and finished with a corrosion-resistant black powder coat. Owners report that installation is straightforward, though some trucks may require drilling for a perfect fit.
However, one real limitation is that the hitch does not include a hitch pin or clip, so you will need to purchase those separately. Also, the 2-inch receiver may not fit some larger dump truck accessories. If you need a higher weight capacity or a different receiver size, consider other options. This hitch is best for standard Class 5 towing needs with a dump truck.
- Rated for 20,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 3,000 lbs tongue weight
- Fits 2-inch receiver, includes all necessary mounting hardware
- Corrosion-resistant black powder coat finish
Pros: High weight capacity suitable for most dump trucks; Easy bolt-on installation with clear instructions
Cons: May require drilling on some truck frames
2. B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3500 Companion 5th Wheel Hitch Plate: Best 5th Wheel Plate
The B&W RVK3500 Companion is a 5th wheel hitch plate that we evaluated based on its high pin weight capacity and durable construction. It is designed to fit into a standard 2-inch receiver, but it requires the B&W turnover ball under-bed mounting system for full functionality. The plate is made from machined and welded steel with a corrosion-resistant powder coat. Owners appreciate the ability to remove the hitch when not needed, freeing up bed space.
A real limitation is the need for the specific under-bed mount, which adds to the overall cost and installation complexity. Additionally, the 5th wheel plate is not suitable for gooseneck trailers. If you do not already have a B&W turnover ball system, this may not be the best choice. This plate is ideal for dump truck owners who frequently tow 5th wheel trailers and want a removable solution.
- Companion 5th wheel hitch plate with 20,000 lbs GTW and 5,000 lbs pin weight
- Fits standard 2-inch receiver, easy to remove when not in use
- Machined and welded steel construction with powder coat finish
Pros: Removable design frees up truck bed space; High pin weight capacity for heavy loads
Cons: Requires compatible B&W turnover ball under-bed mount
3. Reese Towpower 74036 Class 4 Trailer Hitch: Best Value
The Reese Towpower 74036 is a Class 4 hitch that we found to be a solid value option for lighter dump truck towing. It is rated for 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW, which is sufficient for many single-axle dump trucks and medium-duty towing. The hitch comes with a pin and clip, and the black powder coat finish provides decent corrosion resistance. Owner feedback indicates that installation is straightforward on most trucks.
However, the lower weight capacity means it is not suitable for heavy loads or larger dump trucks. If you frequently tow near or above 12,000 lbs, you should consider a Class 5 hitch. Also, some owners have noted that the included hardware may not fit all truck frames perfectly. This hitch is best for budget-conscious buyers with lighter towing needs.
- Class 4 rating: 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW
- Fits 2-inch receiver, includes pin and clip
- Black powder coat finish for weather resistance
Pros: Great value for the price point; Includes necessary hardware for installation
Cons: Lower weight capacity than Class 5 hitches
4. Draw-Tite 75004 Class 4 Trailer Hitch: Compact Design
The Draw-Tite 75004 is a Class 4 hitch with a compact design that we researched for dump trucks with limited clearance. It offers the same 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW rating as many other Class 4 hitches, but its lower profile makes it easier to install on trucks with tight rear bumper spacing. The hitch is finished with a rust-resistant black powder coat. Owners like the easy installation and the fact that it does not hang too low.
However, the compact design also means it may not be as robust as larger hitches, and it is not rated for weight distribution systems. If you need a hitch for heavy towing or weight distribution, this is not the right choice. This hitch is best for dump truck owners who need a simple, low-profile solution for moderate towing.
- Compact design for tight spaces, 2-inch receiver
- Rated at 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW
- Black powder coat finish with rust-resistant coating
Pros: Low profile design fits under rear bumpers; Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons: Not as heavy-duty as some competitors
5. CURT 16310 6-Inch Drop/5-Inch Rise Trailer Hitch Plate: Adjustable Drop
The CURT 16310 is an adjustable drop hitch plate that we evaluated for dump truck owners who need flexibility in trailer height. It offers a 6-inch drop and 5-inch rise, allowing it to work with various trailers. The hitch is rated at 12,000 lbs GTW and 1,200 lbs TW, and it is made from cast steel with a black powder coat. Owner feedback highlights the ease of adjusting the height without tools.
However, the adjustable design adds weight and complexity, and some owners have reported that the locking pin can be difficult to operate over time. Also, the weight capacity is lower than some fixed hitches. This hitch is best for those who need to tow different trailers with varying hitch heights, but it may not be ideal for heavy-duty constant use.
- Adjustable 6-inch drop and 5-inch rise
- Fits 2-inch receiver, Class 4 rating
- Cast steel construction with black powder coat
Pros: Versatile adjustment for different trailer heights; Solid cast steel build
Cons: Heavier than fixed hitches
6. TorkLift 2650 Adjustable Pintle Hitch Plate: Pintle Option
The TorkLift 2650 is a pintle hitch plate that we researched for dump truck owners who need to tow trailers with pintle rings. It fits a 2-inch receiver and is rated at 16,000 lbs GTW and 2,000 lbs TW, making it suitable for heavy-duty towing. The plate is adjustable to accommodate different trailer heights. Owner feedback indicates that it is well-constructed and easy to install.
However, this hitch plate is only for pintle-style trailers and cannot be used with standard ball hitches. Also, some owners have noted that the adjustment mechanism can loosen over time if not properly tightened. If you do not tow pintle trailers, this is not the right product. This hitch is best for dump truck operators who frequently tow military or construction trailers with pintle rings.
- Pintle hitch plate for military-style trailers
- Fits 2-inch receiver, adjustable height
- Rated at 16,000 lbs GTW and 2,000 lbs TW
Pros: Allows towing of pintle ring trailers; Adjustable height for different trailer couplers
Cons: Not compatible with standard ball hitches
7. Roadmaster 1550 Adjustable Tow Bar Base Plate Kit: Tow Bar Base
The Roadmaster 1550 is a base plate kit designed for use with Roadmaster tow bars, and we evaluated it for dump truck owners who need to tow a vehicle behind their truck. It fits a 2-inch receiver and is rated at 10,000 lbs GTW and 1,000 lbs TW. The kit includes adjustable arms to fit different vehicle widths. Owner feedback indicates that installation is straightforward when following the instructions.
However, this base plate only works with Roadmaster tow bars, limiting its compatibility. Additionally, the weight capacity is lower than many other hitch plates, so it is not suitable for heavy towing. If you do not have a Roadmaster tow bar, this plate will not work. This product is best for dump truck owners who already own or plan to buy a Roadmaster tow bar for towing a secondary vehicle.
- Base plate for Roadmaster tow bars
- Fits 2-inch receiver, adjustable arms
- Rated at 10,000 lbs GTW and 1,000 lbs TW
Pros: Allows towing of vehicles with tow bars; Adjustable arms for different vehicle widths
Cons: Requires compatible Roadmaster tow bar
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hitch plate for a dump truck?
A hitch plate is a receiver mounted to the frame of a dump truck that allows you to attach a hitch ball, pintle hook, or other towing accessories. It provides a secure connection point for towing trailers, equipment, or other vehicles.
How do I know which class of hitch plate I need?
Hitch classes indicate weight capacity. Class 4 hitches handle up to 12,000 lbs GTW, while Class 5 hitches handle up to 20,000 lbs or more. Choose based on the maximum weight you plan to tow. For dump trucks, Class 5 is often recommended for heavy loads.
Can I install a hitch plate on a dump truck myself?
Yes, many hitch plates come with bolt-on installation and can be installed with basic tools. However, some trucks may require drilling or frame modifications. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a professional if unsure.
What is the difference between a fixed and adjustable drop hitch plate?
A fixed hitch plate has a set drop or rise, while an adjustable one allows you to change the height to match different trailer couplers. Adjustable plates offer versatility but may be heavier and have slightly lower weight ratings.
Are pintle hitch plates better than ball hitches for dump trucks?
Pintle hitches are often used for heavy-duty, off-road, or military trailers because they allow more articulation and are less likely to detach. However, they are not compatible with standard ball couplers. The choice depends on the type of trailer you tow.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top hitch plates, our top pick is the CURT 31040 Class 5 Trailer Hitch Receiver for its high weight capacity, durability, and ease of installation. For those needing a 5th wheel solution, the B&W Trailer Hitches RVK3500 Companion is an excellent choice. The Reese Towpower 74036 offers the best value for lighter towing needs.
