Technical Trailer Hitch on 500 Classic

[73Abarth500]

Hi! Wondering if anyone has attempted or succeeded in attaching a tow hitch / trailer hitch / receiver on a classic 500? I know this sounds crazy - but I have seen pics online of a 500 towing an ultra light luggage trailer, and need to figure out best way to do this. I am not looking to trailer anything any distance, and not on public roads - it is purely for shows and a bit of attention. The trailer will be custom built to keep the size and weight to a minimum - targeting less than 500 lbs all in. Just trying to figure out best way to attach to the car. My 500 has been through a light "restomod" before I bought it, and is not original in any way, so I am less concerned about keeping everything "vintage". Engine was swapped for a 650 CC / 35 HP model, and matching beefed up powertrain. I have seen threads discussing bicycle trailers or bike rack attachments, but nothing specific about best mounting points. Any thoughts are welcomed!!

 

[PeachsGarage]

This video looks like they're just tying into the bumper mounts which seems like a very weak attachment (than say where the rear panel connects), but, if something were to happen (accident or overload) it's probably better to replace the rear panel than it would be to fix all the structural damage if you had attached at that rear panel bulkhead.

Excited to see what you come up with!

 

[73Abarth500]

Thank you - very helpful. I am guessing their is some kind of additional bar between the rear panel connect points, and then maybe bolting to both the bumper mount and that bar. That's the route I am currently going, e.g. reinforced bumper bar.
That trailer looks heavy with the double shell and interiors, but gives me hope! Appreciate the input. I'll for sure post some pics when I have figured out a solution and tested it. Thanks again!!

 

[fiat500]

In a structurally sound 500 I think that directly connecting part of a towbar support through the bumper holes would be fine, but needs backup. I would be inclined to do one or both of the following:

1. Fit a rigid bar on the inside of the rear panel that is also secured through the bumper bolt holes.
2. Fit one or possibly two steel outriggers either from the centre of the rear panel or from both bumper mounting holes, under the enine bay, and bolt these to the reinforcement structure under the rear of the floor.