Difference in Above Bumper and Below Bumper Front Receiver Hitch for 2004 Jeep Wrangler

Question:

Would you recommend the above bumper receiver or below bumper for 100lb deer feeder mount? Also what is the difference in install time and difficulty? Thanks for your help

asked by: Scott D

Expert Reply:

I would recommend to first check with the manufacturer of the hitch mount deer feeder to see if they recommend an above bumper hitch or a below bumper hitch on the front of your 2004 Jeep Wrangler.

Depending on the style of the deer feeder you have you might need to have clearance from the bumper, so an above bumper hitch might work better for that application.

The installation of the above bumper hitch like Curt Front Hitch, part # 31408, on your 2004 Jeep Wrangler, is listed as a 30 to 60 minute installation. It does not require any drilling or fishwiring of the hardware through the frame. It may require trimming of the plastic shield for the hitch to fit properly. It will not fit a Jeep with the tube style bumper. This hitch would be the easiest to install of the two designs.

The below bumper hitch like the Curt Front Hitch, part # C31028, you have referenced, is also listed as a 30 to 60 minute installation, but I would allow more time because of the drilling of holes and having to fishwire the hardware through holes in the frame.

I am including links to the installation instructions on both of the hitches to help you decide which installation will work best for you.

expert reply by: Jeff D