best way to make a front receiver?

[blue83ranger]

I'm in need of some opinions on the best way to make a front receiver hitch for my '86 ranger. I bought the part where the actual hitch goes in. I just need ideas on how to attach it to the truck. I have a rear hitch for a ranger. should i just copy that as close as i can? or will just a flat peace of 1/2 plate across the frame be strong enough? also i have the stock bumper and don't plan a making anything different. (for this truck at least) and i have a full length brush guard. But to me it would seem stronger to attach it straight to the frame verse the brush guard. and i would like to locate it right below the license plate. So, any suggestions? and thanks in advance for them.

 

[chico4554]

I would try to make a bracket that welds in between the frame rails, that should be good enough

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Do you still have the stock front bumper?

I would try to make something that bolts to the outside of the frame and has the receiver coming out down under the bumper where the airdam would have been, with a crossmember similar to your rear receiver.

 

[blue83ranger]

i do have the stock bumper yet. and i would prefer not to weld it to the truck. So the best way to go would be square tubing then? is there a certain length down the frame it should be, so it doesn't get pushed down or up?