The common way to mount a trailer hitch in the early 50's was a hitch that clamped on the OEM bumper. Very few people used them because when you dropped the tail gate, it would hit the trailer hitch. People that actually pulled heavier trailers, installed bumpers that were recessed to allow the the tail gate to drop. These bumpers were either dealer installed or bought through the aftermarket. Many were fabricated on the farm, but most all had a recess for the tail gate and wrapped around the corners to protect the rear fenders.
