I just picked up my 2013 JK 4 door from the dealership. They had it for three days to install a remote starter and a class 3 hitch. When I picked it up I was stunned to see that the receiver protruded about 4 inches beyond the face of the factory bumper. That fine when the tailgate is closed because the spare tire sticks out further. When you open the tailgate though it is a real knee buster. They said they would replace it but can anyone explain this for me? I have never seen a Jeep with the receiver sticking out like this before. Any input would be appreciated.

 

I have never seen that but it might be exactly what they said to stick out beyond the tire carrier I wouldn't like it that way.

 

They would almost have to put an extension in there or used an aftermarket hitch. My OEM hitch didn't stick far out at all, pic below.



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My brother installed a class 3 hitch on his JKU that he picked up off of Amazon. It also sticks out pretty far from the bumper, so it might be the same one, or that might just be a common design for class 3 hitches for Wranglers. FWIW, my crappy class 2 MOPAR hitch is flush with the bumper.

 

I have a curt class III that sits flush.

 

After placing my initial post on this thread I did a search for hitches on Quadratec.com. They had both the flush style and extended versions. The extended one is about $20 more and ironically is made by Hidden Hitches. I'm sure there is a reason they make one like this but I certainly don't want it.

 

I tow an ultra weight 20' camper with my JK it help to have the hitch that stick out a bit , the coupler and the crank are to close other wise.

 

I did think about that but for as little as I will tow I would rather get an extender or a longer bar. I know the first time my wife bangs her shin on that thing I'll hear about it. Ha

 

Ok now I'm thinking about keeping the extended hitch. It seems like it would be easier to use when towing and it does provide a nice step when washing or treating the top or strapping a kayak down to a roof rack. I guess if I put a rubber cover on it that would ease the pain of bumping I to it. What would you guys do? Here is a photo.

 

So I called the place that installed my hitch and they said they would be happy to swap mine for a flush mount hitch. They said that they would have to charge labor so I opted to install it myself. I picked it up yesterday and installed it last night and it is perfect. It is manufactured by Curt. The only feature this one didn't have was a place to mount the bracket that holds the wiring harness plug. I just drilled and tapped a couple holes on the bottom of it and painted them with some good paint to prevent rust and installed it. Thanks to everyone for their input!