New guy, full sized Dodge Ram expedition vehicle...(long post)

[JamesDowning]

That's basically what I have. It's a 1/2" bolt that threads into the hitch pin hole. It keeps it from wiggling around pretty well and I haven't had any issues with it backing out.

You can essentially do the same thing with this kit from Curt:

I've also seen guys use these with good results:

 

[warrpath4x4]

Nice lookin rig, I'm also an eagle scout and just went to a job interview today for a fulltime paid firefighter position.

 

[theMec]

You definitely have the setup. Good job!
I'm bookmarking this for future ideas.

 

[Quasimoto]

Nice truck, the one I have been building is along the very same lines.

Here is my specs:
2005 Dodge Ram 2500 4x4
5.7 Hemi , Auto Trans
2" Front Spacers, Rear Airbags
305/65R18 BFG AT's, 18x9 MB Motoring V-Drive Wheels
Westin Sportsman Grill Guard
Bushwacker Extend-a-Flares
Hitch Gate Tire Rack
Front reciever hitch
CB, 2-Way, 3w Phone Booster, Jotto Desk

Future Mods:
6" Lift
12 bolt Hummer beadlocks w/ runflats and 37" Goodyear tires
4.56 gears and electric lockers
Some sort of short box camper
Removable winch
Airflow Snorkel

 

[LXRACR]

Nice!

Wow, that is a nice truck! great minds think a like

 

[gunnermoose]

LXRACER, that is a great truck! Looks just like I envision mine to look like.

 

[SSSSTFIRE]

Found ya!

 

[ZJARCHER]

Update?? Or anyone have the pics he had posted?

 

[Jr_Explorer]

I like the tire gate carrier (I tried to carry the spare on the roof rack, too heavy! too hard to get out by myself without injury). I will admit though, it does move around a bit while wheeling. I'm looking into a more secure mount as I don't plan on removing it.

Could you get a local welder to help put two "outboard" hitch receivers on at the frame rail locations and then mod the tire gate to use those? (of course I can't find a good photo but Earthroamers have three hitch receivers across the back like this: http://www.trucktrend.com/roadtests/pickup/163_0608_earth_roamer_xv_lt_crew_cab/photo_02.html)