Be aware that a receiver hitch doesn't increase the pulling power- - - -it just transfers some of the tongue weight to the front axle for better steering and stopping. A Class III receiver hitch increases the tongue weight capacity to 700 or 1,000 Lbs. depending on the rating of the spring bars- - - -7,000 to 10,000 lbs. loaded trailer weight. That's WAY too much for an older 1/2 ton to handle. A Class II (bumper) hitch limits the acceptable tongue weight to around 200-250 Lbs., which corresponds to a total trailer and cargo combined weight of 2,000 to 2,500 lbs. That's pretty close to the max weight a stovebolt needs to be towing unless it has a 3/4 ton or heavier rating. I'd strongly recommend surge brakes or electric if you're going to approach the high end of Class II tow weight. A well-built bumper-type hitch will probably be all you need. If the rear bumper squats more than it does when a 200 lb. man stands on the trailer ball, you've got too much tongue weight and/or more towed weight than you need.
Jerry
