Before Installation:

  • Make sure you have the correct hitch for your vehicle and the trailer being towed.
  • Check the instructions that came with the hitch.
  • Inspect the vehicle's hitch attachment area. Do not attach the hitch to the vehicle if there is excessive corrosion or damage to the hitch attachment area.
  • Take proper safety precautions. When lifting the vehicle on a lift or ramp, make sure the vehicle is properly secured and locked so that it does not fall or roll off the stand.
  • Use proper tools and wear safety glasses when drilling holes.
  • Prior to installation, it is a good idea to loosely assemble the hitch, install the tie rods, pins and clips, and secure the hitch in place. This will allow identification of any obstructions in the installation and verify the location of the drawbar on the vehicle and an understanding of how to install the hitch.

Installation Steps:

  • In some cases, it may be necessary to temporarily loosen the exhaust system and/or reposition it slightly to clear the hooks during installation, especially if the exhaust system has been replaced prior to installation of the hooks, as all hooks are designed using the vehicle's original equipment.
  • In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the bumper on the vehicle or the bracket mounted to the bumper in order to install the hooks.
  • Hitchs are designed to use existing holes. If suitable holes are not available, holes must be drilled in the frame. The holes in the hook can be used as a guide to drill holes in the proper locations.
  • When drilling, always punch and drill a pilot hole in the centre of the hole location. The appropriate drill size can then be selected for the desired hole.
  • When installing the hitchs, always use the reinforcement plates supplied with the hooks where appropriate to reinforce the frame and spread the load over the edges of the frame.
  • All hardware (except handles or lug nuts and u-bolts) is Grade 5 or 8.8 (metric). Tighten all bolts to the torque level specified in the instructions.
  • Make sure the trailer hitch is mounted symmetrically to the vehicle before tightening all bolts in place.

Safety Tips:

  • Never modify the hitch in any way.
  • DO NOT drill holes in the trailer to mount accessories, etc.
  • Never use a blowtorch to open holes or modify components. This can weaken the metal, cause holes and create an unnecessary fire hazard.
  • DO NOT weld the hitch to the frame. Welding to the frame will weaken the frame.