Carrier/rack problems of the 1997 Dodge Ram 2500

Frame rusting through and cracked near starring gear box and stabilizer bar bushing mounts.

I own a 1997 Dodge Ram 2500. I noticed the hitch stinger was angled downward. Upon inspection of the hitch (3 bolts per side), at the 90 degree bend of the hitch, the driver side is cracked 7/8 of the length; the pax side is cracked 2 ". One can reasonably conclude that hitches installed on 98 models were made prior to 98, and that a hitch of the same production batch could have been istalled on 97 models. Dodge has acknowledged defects on hitches made prior to 98, with confirmed and anecdotal reports of 97 models with similar damage. I would submit Dodge corporation, withiincreased numbers of reports of cracks in 97models, and pressure from NHTSA, offer a recall. It is obvious the quality and weight rating of factory installed hitches is not adequate.

The trailer hitch developed two inch cracks in the metal at the 90 degree bend where the hitch bolts to the truck. The cracks are on both left and right sides starting at the rear. A recall has been made for 1998 trucks but not 1997. This defect can cause a total disconnection of the towed trailer since safety chains are also attached to the hitch.