Hitch installation: DrawTite 75162
Thread Starter
|
Professional
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 142
Likes: 0
From: Yauco, PR
Hitch installation: DrawTite 75162
Hi guys!
Finally I received my new hitch and last night Idecided to install it by myself. It took me 1.5 hour the complete process including the "thinking & watching" process. I didn't take pictures as I would like but I have some recomendations to make the process easier:
1. Park the -D- where the rear area gets higher so it would be comfortable to work under it.
2. Completely remove the spare tire.
3. Completely remove the bumper cover (you may need some help for carry-out part). Watch and remember how it was installed behind the wheels. You'll need torx tools and a basic screwdriver. Try to use a short screwdriver for the bolts located at the rear wheels (just for easier handle). Be carefull with the plastic bolts at the top of the cover. These are attached to foam so they're really just for "good-looks". Use finger pressure when reinstalling. There are four plastic bolts below the bumper that attaches to the chasis brackets. Use finger pressure to hold the top of the plastic bolt while using a screwdriver to remove from the bottom. Otherwise you'll find yourself with an "endless" bolt.
4. Cut the foam just the necessary until you can pass the "U" bolts over the crossmember. First, I measure the distance between bolts using the hitch soI can know where exactly to cut. Both cuts were about 3 inches long by around 1/2 inch high (between crossmenber and foam).
5. Install the hitch to the "U" bolts and center it using the rear bracket behind the crossmember as a reference.
6. Once centered, tight the "U" bolts firmly. You'll need a 5/8" long cube (like the one used for spark plugs)
7. Drill through the crossmember the four holes individually using the hitch as guide. Remember: drill slowly and calm. Carefull as the drill may suddenly stop and can harm your wrist. Be sure to buy the best 1/2" drill bit for metal available.
8. Install the last two bolts as instructed and tight them firmly.
9. Re-install the bumper cover with someone's help. Replace all bolts.
10. Clean the mess.
You're done! If anyone still have questions about the process feel free to e-mail me at erwinf@choicecable.net
I will post a picture of the completed job tonight.
Regards,
Finally I received my new hitch and last night Idecided to install it by myself. It took me 1.5 hour the complete process including the "thinking & watching" process. I didn't take pictures as I would like but I have some recomendations to make the process easier:
1. Park the -D- where the rear area gets higher so it would be comfortable to work under it.
2. Completely remove the spare tire.
3. Completely remove the bumper cover (you may need some help for carry-out part). Watch and remember how it was installed behind the wheels. You'll need torx tools and a basic screwdriver. Try to use a short screwdriver for the bolts located at the rear wheels (just for easier handle). Be carefull with the plastic bolts at the top of the cover. These are attached to foam so they're really just for "good-looks". Use finger pressure when reinstalling. There are four plastic bolts below the bumper that attaches to the chasis brackets. Use finger pressure to hold the top of the plastic bolt while using a screwdriver to remove from the bottom. Otherwise you'll find yourself with an "endless" bolt.
4. Cut the foam just the necessary until you can pass the "U" bolts over the crossmember. First, I measure the distance between bolts using the hitch soI can know where exactly to cut. Both cuts were about 3 inches long by around 1/2 inch high (between crossmenber and foam).
5. Install the hitch to the "U" bolts and center it using the rear bracket behind the crossmember as a reference.
6. Once centered, tight the "U" bolts firmly. You'll need a 5/8" long cube (like the one used for spark plugs)
7. Drill through the crossmember the four holes individually using the hitch as guide. Remember: drill slowly and calm. Carefull as the drill may suddenly stop and can harm your wrist. Be sure to buy the best 1/2" drill bit for metal available.
8. Install the last two bolts as instructed and tight them firmly.
9. Re-install the bumper cover with someone's help. Replace all bolts.
10. Clean the mess.
You're done! If anyone still have questions about the process feel free to e-mail me at erwinf@choicecable.net
I will post a picture of the completed job tonight.
Regards,
Registered User
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
From: Grand Rapids, MI
I know this thread is old and not looking to revive it, just add some information a I found this when I was looking for info on the install. Here is a really good video of the installation wihtout removing the bumper cover all the way.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uUelmcsYX0
With this method taking my time, i completed in 50 minutes including getting my equipment ready.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uUelmcsYX0
With this method taking my time, i completed in 50 minutes including getting my equipment ready.
