WHy is my factory installed tow hitch on my 04 dmax only good for 7500 lbs if my truck can pull 13500 or so?

the 13,500 is for a 5th or goose..

Yes, you have to read the fine print, where it says "properly equipped."

so my duramax can only safely pull 7500? Or can I just remove my factory hitch and install one with a higher rating?
I was under the impression the duramax could pull around 11 or 12K off the hitch, and 13 something with a 5th wheel.

IIRC that # is for weight carrying. No weight distribution hitch. I believe it is 12000# for weight distribution. Jerry.

The 7500# is for non weight distribution hitches. As Jerry stated with the weight distribution it is 12,000#. You can get a better hitch like the Putnam XDR I think that it is rated higher.

You should replace it if you are going to pull anything heavy--They light duty, will break, bend, and have some poor welds. I bought a Putnam XDR from Performance Center for $115-- it was drop shipped from the company in Michigan in 5 days. Total was $135 including tax, and well worth it for piece of mind. Much heaver and a direct bolt-on except for the bracket that holds the trailer connector. :):):)

guys, thanks so much for the info

Take the old part that holds the wiring connection off the old hitch and have it welded to the new one and you are good to go.