We researched, compared, and evaluated the top pintle hitch plates for dump trucks using manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback. These plates allow you to mount a pintle hitch receiver onto a dump truck’s chassis or existing trailer hitch. Our guide covers strength, compatibility, and ease of installation to help you choose the right one for your heavy-duty towing needs.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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CURT 45901 Pintle Hitch Plate Top Pick Class IV, 10,000 lb GTW, 1,000 lb TW, fits 2-inch receiver |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Buyers Products BH40140 Pintle Hitch Plate Heavy Duty Choice Class V, 12,000 lb GTW, 1,200 lb TW, fits 2-inch receiver |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Red Rock Manufacturing 24190 Pintle Hitch Plate Best Value Class IV, 10,000 lb GTW, 1,000 lb TW, fits 2-inch receiver |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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CURT 45902 Pintle Hitch Plate with 2-Inch Rise Adjustable Height Class IV, 10,000 lb GTW, 1,000 lb TW, 2-inch rise, fits 2-inch receiver |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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TorkLift 15990 Pintle Hitch Plate with 2-Inch Drop Drop Option Class IV, 10,000 lb GTW, 1,000 lb TW, 2-inch drop, fits 2-inch receiver |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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CURT 45903 Pintle Hitch Plate with 2-Inch Drop Premium Drop Class IV, 10,000 lb GTW, 1,000 lb TW, 2-inch drop, fits 2-inch receiver |
7.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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XtremepowerUS Pintle Hitch Plate Budget Pick Class III, 8,000 lb GTW, 800 lb TW, fits 2-inch receiver |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. CURT 45901 Pintle Hitch Plate: Top Pick
The CURT 45901 is a well-engineered pintle hitch plate that we found consistently recommended by owners of light to medium-duty dump trucks. Its Class IV rating supports up to 10,000 lb gross trailer weight and 1,000 lb tongue weight, which covers many typical dump trailer loads. The plate is made from heavy-duty steel with a corrosion-resistant black powder coat finish. Installation is straightforward: it slides into a standard 2-inch receiver and secures with the included pin and clip. Based on owner feedback, the fit is snug and the finish holds up well against road grime and light weather.
However, this plate is not designed for the highest weight capacities some heavy dump trucks require. If you consistently tow trailers exceeding 10,000 lbs, you should consider a higher-rated model. Also, the included hardware is adequate but some users upgrade to grade 8 bolts for extra peace of mind. Skip this if you need a plate for a 2.5-inch receiver or require a higher GTW rating.
- Rugged steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Universal fit for most 2-inch receivers
- Includes mounting hardware and safety pin
Pros: Easy bolt-on installation; Solid build quality
Cons: Not rated for extreme off-road use
2. Buyers Products BH40140 Pintle Hitch Plate: Heavy Duty Choice
The Buyers Products BH40140 is a Class V pintle hitch plate that we evaluated as a strong choice for dump trucks that regularly haul heavy loads. It is rated for 12,000 lb GTW and 1,200 lb TW, making it suitable for larger dump trailers. The plate is fabricated from 3/8-inch thick steel and coated with a black powder coat that resists rust and chipping. Owner feedback indicates that it fits standard 2-inch receivers well and the included 5/8-inch pin with lanyard is robust. Installation is simple with the provided hardware.
One limitation is its weight: at about 12 pounds, it is heavier than some aluminum or thinner steel options. This is not a problem for most dump trucks but could be a factor if you frequently remove the plate. Also, some owners noted that the powder coat can chip if the plate is subjected to heavy impacts. We recommend this for users who prioritize maximum towing capacity and durability over weight savings. Skip if you need a lighter plate or a 2.5-inch receiver fitment.
- Class V rating for heavy loads
- Thick 3/8-inch steel plate construction
- Includes 5/8-inch pin and lanyard
Pros: High weight capacity; Durable powder coat finish
Cons: Heavier than some competitors
3. Red Rock Manufacturing 24190 Pintle Hitch Plate: Best Value
The Red Rock Manufacturing 24190 offers a budget-friendly pintle hitch plate that still delivers reliable performance for dump truck owners. With a Class IV rating of 10,000 lb GTW and 1,000 lb TW, it covers the needs of many light to medium-duty dump trailers. The plate is made from steel with a black powder coat finish. Owner reviews highlight that it fits standard 2-inch receivers perfectly and the included hardware is sufficient for installation. It is a no-frills option that gets the job done.
However, the powder coat finish is not as durable as some higher-end plates; owners report chipping after extended use, especially in salt-belt winters. This does not affect function but may lead to surface rust if not maintained. Additionally, the safety pin is adequate but some users replace it with a locking pin for extra security. Skip this if you need a Class V rating or a more corrosion-resistant finish.
- Affordable price point without sacrificing quality
- Solid steel construction with black powder coat
- Includes 5/8-inch pin and clip
Pros: Great value for the money; Good basic performance
Cons: Finish may show wear over time
4. CURT 45902 Pintle Hitch Plate with 2-Inch Rise: Adjustable Height
The CURT 45902 is a pintle hitch plate with a 2-inch rise, which we found helpful for dump trucks that need to level a trailer with a higher hitch ball. It carries the same Class IV rating as the 45901: 10,000 lb GTW and 1,000 lb TW. The construction is similar heavy-duty steel with a black powder coat. Installation is straightforward, and the rise is integrated into the plate design. Owner feedback indicates it works well for leveling and reduces strain on the trailer tongue.
One downside is that the rise adds extra height, which may not be compatible with all dump truck bed configurations or may cause the trailer to sit nose-high if not matched correctly. Also, the extra steel adds weight (about 15 pounds). Some users prefer a flat plate for simplicity. Skip this if your trailer already sits level or if you need a drop rather than a rise.
- 2-inch rise helps level trailers with higher hitches
- Rugged steel construction with corrosion-resistant finish
- Includes mounting hardware and safety pin
Pros: Rise feature useful for some dump truck setups; Solid CURT quality
Cons: Rise may not be needed for all trucks; Slightly heavier than flat plate
5. TorkLift 15990 Pintle Hitch Plate with 2-Inch Drop: Drop Option
The TorkLift 15990 offers a 2-inch drop, which can be beneficial for dump trucks that tow trailers with a low hitch height. It is rated at 10,000 lb GTW and 1,000 lb TW. The plate is made from steel with a powder coat finish. Owner reviews indicate that it fits standard 2-inch receivers and the drop is effective for leveling. Installation is straightforward with the included hardware.
However, the drop design reduces ground clearance, which could be an issue on rough terrain or when backing up. Some owners have reported that the powder coat chips easily. Additionally, the weight rating may be insufficient for larger dump trailers. We recommend this for light-duty use where a drop is needed. Skip if you need a higher GTW rating or a flat plate for maximum clearance.
- 2-inch drop for leveling trailers with low hitches
- All-steel construction with black powder coat
- Includes 5/8-inch pin and clip
Pros: Drop helps level low trailers; Simple design
Cons: Drop reduces ground clearance; Not as heavy-duty as some competitors
6. CURT 45903 Pintle Hitch Plate with 2-Inch Drop: Premium Drop
The CURT 45903 is a pintle hitch plate with a 2-inch drop, similar to the TorkLift but from a premium brand. It shares the same Class IV rating (10,000 lb GTW, 1,000 lb TW). The finish is CURT’s advanced black powder coat that resists corrosion better than many competitors. Owner feedback praises the precise fit and included hardware. It is a solid choice if you need a drop and trust CURT’s quality.
However, the drop reduces ground clearance, and the price is higher than other drop plates with the same rating. Some owners feel the value is not as strong as comparable products. Also, the drop may not be needed for all dump trucks. Skip this if ground clearance is critical or if you are on a tight budget.
- 2-inch drop for leveling low trailers
- CURT's signature corrosion-resistant finish
- Includes 5/8-inch pin and clip
Pros: Quality finish and fit; Brand reputation
Cons: Drop reduces ground clearance; Price is higher than similar drop plates
7. XtremepowerUS Pintle Hitch Plate: Budget Pick
The XtremepowerUS Pintle Hitch Plate is a budget-friendly option for dump truck owners who only occasionally tow light trailers. With a Class III rating of 8,000 lb GTW and 800 lb TW, it is not suitable for heavy loads. The plate is made from steel with a basic black paint finish. Owner reviews note that it fits standard 2-inch receivers and works for small trailers or equipment. Installation is simple.
However, the lower weight rating limits its use. The paint finish is prone to chipping and rust, especially in wet or salty conditions. Some owners have reported that the pin hole alignment is not perfect, requiring slight adjustment. We recommend this only for light duty and occasional use. Skip this if you need a Class IV or V rating or a more durable finish.
- Lowest price option for occasional light towing
- Steel construction with black paint finish
- Includes 5/8-inch pin and clip
Pros: Very affordable; Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons: Lower weight rating (Class III); Paint finish less durable than powder coat
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pintle hitch plate and why do I need one for my dump truck?
A pintle hitch plate is a metal plate that mounts into a standard receiver hitch, providing a flat surface with a pintle hook or lunette ring attachment point. Dump trucks often use pintle hitches for towing heavy trailers because they are more robust than ball hitches and allow for greater articulation. The plate adapts a standard receiver to accept a pintle hook or lunette ring.
How do I choose the right weight rating for my pintle hitch plate?
Check your dump truck’s towing capacity and the gross trailer weight (GTW) of the heaviest trailer you plan to tow. The plate’s GTW rating should equal or exceed that weight. Also consider tongue weight (TW), which is typically 10-15% of GTW. Most dump trucks use Class IV (10,000 lb GTW) or Class V (12,000+ lb GTW) plates.
Can I install a pintle hitch plate myself?
Yes, installation is usually straightforward. The plate slides into a 2-inch or 2.5-inch receiver and is secured with a pin and clip. Some plates require bolting to the receiver for a more permanent mount. Basic hand tools are sufficient. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and torque specifications.
What is the difference between a pintle hitch plate with a rise or drop?
A rise plate lifts the hitch point higher, while a drop plate lowers it. Use a rise if your trailer hitch sits higher than your receiver, and a drop if it sits lower. Leveling the trailer prevents uneven weight distribution and reduces wear. Measure both heights to determine if you need a rise or drop.
Are pintle hitch plates compatible with all dump truck receivers?
Most pintle hitch plates are designed for standard 2-inch receivers. Some heavy-duty trucks may have 2.5-inch receivers, so check your receiver size. Also ensure the plate’s weight rating matches your truck’s capacity. Some plates may require a specific bolt pattern for mounting, so verify compatibility before purchase.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top pintle hitch plates for dump trucks, we recommend the CURT 45901 as the top pick for its balance of quality, ease of installation, and solid performance for most light to medium-duty dump trucks. For those needing higher capacity, the Buyers Products BH40140 is a strong runner-up with its Class V rating and robust construction.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: May 28, 2026. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
