First Impressions of Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10
The Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10 promises a robust and clean solution for those needing to tow heavy loads with their compatible Chevy or GMC truck. Draw-Tite is a well-known name in the towing industry, and their Hide-A-Goose system is designed for both functionality and aesthetics. It allows you to have a heavy-duty gooseneck hitch when you need it, and a virtually flat truck bed when you don’t. This kit specifically targets Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 HD models from 1999 to 2010.
I’ve been hauling equipment for years, often needing to switch between bed-mounted tools and gooseneck trailers. The constant in-and-out of traditional above-bed hitches was a pain. I wanted a system that offered the full towing capacity without sacrificing bed space when it wasn’t in use. I had been using a standard bolt-on gooseneck hitch for my cattle trailer and hay hauls. The biggest problem was the bulky rails sticking up in the bed when I wasn’t towing.
The kit arrived in a heavy, well-packed box. My initial thought was, “This thing is built to last!” The steel was thick, and the welds looked clean and strong. I was impressed with the seemingly straightforward design and the relatively minimal number of parts. Seeing the “Hide-A-Goose” hitch head, it seemed a clever solution compared to the clunky fixed ball in my old setup.
I considered the B&W Turnoverball system, a popular competitor, but chose the Draw-Tite for its slightly lower price point and what appeared to be a simpler installation process. I also looked at a Curt Manufacturing option, but reviews suggested the Draw-Tite had a better fit for my 2002 Chevy 2500HD. I was cautiously optimistic and excited to get this installed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose kit myself over a weekend, using the provided instructions and a few online videos for reference. The most challenging part was drilling the hole in the bed for the ball. Once installed, I immediately hooked up my 24-foot cattle trailer to move some livestock. The hitch-up process was smooth and secure.
The weather was dry, thankfully, as drilling the pilot hole would have been much messier in mud. The truck felt more stable pulling the trailer compared to the old hitch. The difference may have been psychological, but I felt like I had more control. More important, the ball locked into the trailer coupler with a reassuring clunk.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose system has held up admirably. There are no signs of bending, cracking, or excessive wear. I’ve hauled everything from cattle and hay to construction materials and a skid steer. The finish shows some minor scratches from use, but that’s to be expected.
Maintenance has been minimal. I occasionally spray the ball mount and receiver with WD-40 to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. The real test will be after a few Wisconsin winters and the road salt that comes with them. Compared to my old bolt-on hitch, this Draw-Tite system is a game-changer.
Breaking Down the Features of Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10
Specifications
The Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10 is designed for specific Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra models: 1999-2004 Chevy Silverado 2500 (All Styles), 2001-2010 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD (All Styles), 2007-2010 Chevy Silverado 3500 HD (All Styles), 1999-2004 GMC Sierra 2500 (All Styles), 2001-2010 GMC Sierra 2500 HD (All Styles) and 2007 to 2010 GMC Sierra 3500 HD (All Styles).
The kit includes the #4434 Under-Bed Rail Kit and the #9465 30K Hide-A-Goose Narrow Hitch Head. The 2-5/16″ chrome-plated hitch ball is rated for a 30,000 lbs Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and a 7,500 lbs Vertical Load (VL). The under-bed rail kit is designed for a bolt-on application.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the types of trailers you can safely tow and the overall reliability of the system. The high GTW and VL ratings provide peace of mind when hauling heavy loads. The bolt-on design is essential for ease of installation and avoids the need for professional welding.
Performance & Functionality
The Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10 performs admirably. The hitch head locks securely into the rails, providing a solid connection for towing. The hide-away feature is its greatest strength, allowing for a full, unobstructed truck bed when the hitch isn’t needed.
The only weakness is the initial installation process, which requires drilling a large hole in the truck bed. But once installed, the hitch is easy to use and reliable. It definitely meets my expectations for a heavy-duty, hide-away gooseneck hitch.
Design & Ergonomics
The kit is constructed from heavy-gauge steel with a durable black powder coat finish. The components are well-engineered and fit together precisely. The weight of the kit is significant, reflecting its robust construction. However, the design is relatively simple and straightforward.
The system is user-friendly, although the initial installation requires some mechanical skill. The hide-away feature is what sets this hitch apart from traditional models. It allows for a clean, unobstructed truck bed when not in use.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose system appears to be built to last. The heavy-duty steel construction and durable finish should withstand years of use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The biggest concern is rust prevention, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Regular application of rust-inhibiting spray will help extend the life of the hitch.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes all necessary hardware for installation and operation. There aren’t many customization options available directly from Draw-Tite for this specific kit. However, the 2-5/16″ ball size is standard.
The standard size allows users to interchange the ball with different sizes or types if needed. While not directly customization, bed liners can be trimmed to fit around the flush-mounted receiver.
Pros and Cons of Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10
Pros
- High Towing Capacity: Rated for 30,000 lbs GTW and 7,500 lbs vertical load, making it suitable for heavy-duty towing.
- Hide-Away Design: The hitch head can be easily removed and stored, providing a clean and unobstructed truck bed.
- Bolt-On Installation: The rail kit is designed for a bolt-on application, simplifying the installation process (though drilling is required).
- Durable Construction: Made from heavy-gauge steel with a durable black powder coat finish, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Vehicle Specific Fit: Designed to fit specific Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra models for a precise and secure fit.
Cons
- Requires Drilling: Installation requires drilling a large hole in the truck bed, which can be intimidating for some users.
- Rust Potential: Like all steel components, the hitch is susceptible to rust, especially in harsh environments (regular maintenance is required).
Who Should Buy Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10?
The Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10 is perfect for farmers, ranchers, construction workers, and anyone who frequently tows heavy gooseneck trailers with their compatible Chevy or GMC truck. The hide-away feature makes it ideal for those who need a functional truck bed when not towing.
If you only occasionally tow light loads, this kit might be overkill. Also, if you are not comfortable drilling a large hole in your truck bed or paying someone to do so, you should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a high-quality rust inhibitor spray.
Conclusion on Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10
Overall, the Draw-Tite 9465-34 Draw Tite Hide A Goose Complete Under Bed Gooseneck Hitch Kit For Chevy 1999 ’10 is a well-designed and durable towing solution. The hide-away feature is a major selling point. It offers the convenience of a full truck bed when the hitch isn’t needed.
The price is justified by the high towing capacity, durable construction, and vehicle-specific fit. The Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose is well worth the investment if you need a reliable and versatile gooseneck hitch.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Draw-Tite Hide-A-Goose system. Take the plunge, measure twice, drill once, and enjoy the versatility and peace of mind this hitch provides.