Product Overview
The CURT 13183 Class 3 Trailer Hitch is engineered for serious towing, providing the necessary strength and reliability for various hauling needs. This custom-fit receiver hitch is designed for specific vehicle applications, ensuring a precise fit and optimal performance.
Image: The CURT 13183 Class 3 Trailer Hitch, a black, robust steel component with a 2-inch receiver tube.
Key Features:
- Dependable Strength: Rated for 4,000 lbs. gross trailer weight (GTW) and 400 lbs. tongue weight (TW), with higher capacities when used with a weight distribution hitch.
- Versatile Design: Features a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver, suitable for various towing applications. Note: Not compatible with vertical hanging bike racks.
- Fully Tested: Designed and tested in real-world, on-vehicle conditions according to SAE J684 standards for safety.
- Rust, Chip, UV-Resistant: Protected with a dual-coat finish of rust-resistant liquid A-coat and durable black powder coat.
- Easy to Install: Offers a custom, factory fit for select Nissan Xterra models, often requiring no drilling.
Installation Guide
This section provides general guidance for installing your CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch. For detailed, vehicle-specific instructions, always refer to the official installation manual provided with your product or available on the manufacturer's website.
Pre-Installation Considerations:
- Ensure your vehicle is compatible with the CURT 13183 hitch (select Nissan Xterra models).
- Gather necessary tools. While often no drilling is required, some installations may benefit from loosening or temporarily moving vehicle components like the spare tire or muffler.
- Consider having a helper, as the hitch is heavy (approximately 36 pounds).
Image: An icon indicating "No Drilling Required," highlighting a key installation benefit for this hitch.
General Installation Steps (Consult Official Manual for Details):
- Prepare Vehicle: If necessary, loosen or temporarily lower the spare tire and/or muffler to create clearance for hitch placement.
- Position Hitch: Carefully lift the hitch into position, aligning the mounting points with the vehicle's frame.
- Secure with Hardware: Insert the provided bolts and attachment plates into the frame. Start with a few bolts on each side to loosely secure the hitch, then install the remaining hardware.
- Tighten Fasteners: Once all hardware is in place, progressively tighten all nuts and bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque settings.
- Reinstall Components: Reinstall any vehicle components that were temporarily removed or loosened.
Image: A diagram illustrating the key features and benefits of the CURT hitch, including its vehicle-specific design, standard hitch receiver, fully tested design, and industry-leading dual-coat finish.
Image: A close-up view of the 2-inch standard hitch receiver, showing its robust construction.
Image: A graphic indicating the 2-inch receiver tube size, a key specification for compatibility with towing accessories.
Operating the Trailer Hitch
The CURT Class 3 Trailer Hitch is designed to provide a secure connection for various types of trailers and towing accessories.
Towing Capacity:
- Weight Carrying (WC): Up to 4,000 lbs. Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) and 400 lbs. Tongue Weight (TW).
- Weight Distribution (WD): Up to 6,000 lbs. Weight Distribution Capacity (WDC) and 600 lbs. Weight Distribution Tongue Weight (WDTW) when used with a compatible weight distribution hitch.
- Always ensure that the total weight of your trailer and cargo does not exceed the lowest-rated towing component (vehicle, hitch, or ball mount).
Compatible Applications:
This hitch is commonly used for:
- Utility trailers
- Boat trailers
- Campers
- Snowmobile or ATV haulers
- Other towing accessories that utilize a 2-inch receiver.
Important Considerations:
- Do not exceed the maximum towing capacities of the hitch or your vehicle.
- This hitch is not compatible with vertical hanging bikes or bike racks that require bikes to be hung or mounted vertically.
- Ensure all connections are secure before towing.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and safe operation of your CURT trailer hitch.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the hitch for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose fasteners. Check for cracks in welds or bent components.
- Cleaning: Clean the hitch regularly, especially after exposure to road salt, dirt, or harsh weather conditions. A simple wash with soap and water followed by drying is usually sufficient.
- Protective Finish: The hitch features a co-cured finish of liquid A-coat and black powder coat for superior resistance to rust, chipping, and UV damage. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that could damage this protective layer.
- Fastener Torque: Re-check the torque on all mounting bolts periodically, especially after the first few uses, to ensure they remain properly tightened.
Image: The industrial process of applying the dual-coat finish, which provides superior protection against rust, chipping, and UV damage.
Troubleshooting
While CURT hitches are designed for reliability, minor issues may arise. This section offers general troubleshooting advice.
Common Concerns:
- Loose Fit/Rattling:
Solution: Ensure all mounting bolts are tightened to the specified torque. Check for any obstructions or incorrect component placement during installation.
- Difficulty Installing:
Solution: Verify that the hitch model is correct for your specific vehicle year and model. Re-read the installation instructions carefully. Ensure adequate clearance by temporarily moving vehicle components if necessary. A second person can greatly assist with positioning.
- Corrosion/Rust:
Solution: While the hitch has a protective coating, extreme conditions can still cause wear. Clean regularly and consider applying a rust-inhibiting spray to any exposed metal if minor surface rust appears.
If you encounter persistent issues or significant damage, do not attempt to repair the hitch yourself. Contact CURT customer support or a qualified professional.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | CURT |
| Model Number | 13183 |
| Item Weight | 36 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 41.08 x 18 x 6 inches |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish Type | GLOSS BLACK POWDER COAT |
| Receiver Size | 2-inch x 2-inch |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (WC) | 4,000 lbs. GTW / 400 lbs. TW |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (WD) | 6,000 lbs. WDC / 600 lbs. WDTW |
| Vehicle Service Type | Pickup Trucks, Marine-Personal-Craft, ATV, Car, Sport-Utility-Vehicles, Snowmobiles, Trailer |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Image: A CURT hitch undergoing rigorous testing at an engineering facility to ensure compliance with SAE J684 standards.
Image: The "Made in USA" logo, indicating the product's country of manufacture.
Warranty Information
Specific warranty details for the CURT 13183 Class 3 Trailer Hitch are typically provided with the product packaging or can be found on the official CURT Manufacturing website. It is recommended to register your product upon purchase to ensure full warranty coverage and to receive important product updates.
For the most accurate and up-to-date warranty terms and conditions, please visit the CURT Manufacturing official website or contact their customer service directly.
Customer Support
If you have any questions regarding the installation, operation, maintenance, or warranty of your CURT trailer hitch, please contact CURT customer support.
- Online Support: Visit the official CURT Manufacturing website for FAQs, product documentation, and contact forms.
- Phone Support: Refer to the contact information provided on the CURT website or product packaging for phone support hours.
- Brand Store: You can also visit the CURT Store on Amazon for more product information and resources.
