You can build your own tow hitch with a few simple materials and brackets that can be found at your local hardware store. Tow hitches are useful for hauling large loads with your vehicle, including trailers and mobile homes. Purchasing a tow hitch from a commercial source can be expensive, often costing hundreds of dollars depending on the size of hitch, so building your own can save you some money and get you and your recreational vehicle out on the road.
Purchase a hitch bar, cross bar and mounting brackets from a hardware store. The tow hitch parts will depend on the size, weight and haul type, whether an RV or a trailer. Be sure that your vehicle is capable of towing another vehicle or weighted haul by referring to the owner's manual for your vehicle.
Follow the hitch bar manufacturer's instructions to drill holes into the frame and fender of your vehicle. The distance and size of these holes will differ according to the size of the screws and bolts you purchased to install the hitch bar and mounting brackets.
Attach the two mounting brackets onto your vehicle by aligning the holes in the brackets to those just made on the vehicle. Use a power drill bit to secure the screws and bolts into the brackets. Use nuts or washers with the screws to provide a secure fit for the mounting brackets.
Install the cross bar and hitch bar into the mounting brackets by following the manufacturers' instructions and specifications. Most trailer hitch assembly kits come with an instruction manual and examples of different vehicle installations. These kits will also include the appropriate screws, bolts or other installation items needed to complete the job.
