CURT 14090 Class 4 Trailer Hitch Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The CURT 14090 Class 4 Trailer Hitch is engineered to provide robust towing capabilities for select Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana models. This custom receiver hitch is designed for heavy-duty applications, offering a secure and reliable connection for various towing needs. It features a 2-inch receiver tube opening and is constructed from high-strength steel with a durable, rust-resistant finish.

Figure 1: Front view of the CURT 14090 Class 4 Trailer Hitch. This image displays the main body of the hitch, including the 2-inch receiver tube and mounting plates.

Key Features:

• Dependable Strength: Rated for 10,000 lbs. gross trailer weight (GTW) and 1,000 lbs. tongue weight (TW). Compatible with weight distribution systems, offering a maximum WD capacity of 12,000 lbs. and a WDTW of 1,200 lbs. (limited to lowest-rated towing component).
• Versatile Design: Equipped with a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver, accommodating a wide variety of towing accessories such as ball mounts and tow hooks.
• Fully Tested: Each CURT Class 4 trailer hitch design undergoes real-world, on-vehicle testing at our Detroit engineering facility, adhering to SAE J684 standards for safety and reliability.
• Rust, Chip, UV-Resistant: Protected with a dual-coat finish of rust-resistant liquid A-coat and durable black powder coat, co-cured for exceptional resistance to environmental factors.
• Easy to Install: Designed for a custom fit on specific model years of the Chevy Express 1500, 2500, or 3500 and GMC Savana 1500, 2500, or 3500.

2. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for the safe and effective operation of your CURT trailer hitch. While this hitch is designed for a custom fit, always refer to the detailed instructions provided with your specific product for precise steps and torque specifications. Basic tools are generally required for installation.

General Installation Steps:

1. Prepare the Vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and properly secured. It may be necessary to lower the spare tire or exhaust system for better access to the frame rails.
2. Clean Attachment Points: Inspect and clean any existing weld nuts or attachment points on the vehicle's frame to remove rust or debris. Use a wire brush or thread tap if necessary.
3. Position the Hitch: Carefully lift and position the trailer hitch against the vehicle's frame rails, aligning the mounting holes. Assistance from another person or a jack stand is recommended due to the hitch's weight.
4. Secure Hardware: Insert the provided bolts, washers, and nuts through the aligned holes. Hand-tighten all fasteners initially.
5. Torque Fasteners: Using a torque wrench, tighten all fasteners to the specific torque values indicated in the product's instruction sheet. Do not use excessive torque or an impact wrench.
6. Reinstall Components: Reattach any components that were removed or lowered during the installation process, such as the spare tire or exhaust system.

Figure 2: Included hardware components for the CURT 14090 Class 4 Trailer Hitch. Always use only the provided bolts, nuts, and washers.

Installation Video (Specific Product):

General Hitch Installation Video:

3. Operating the Trailer Hitch

The CURT 14090 Class 4 Trailer Hitch is designed to connect your vehicle to a trailer for towing. It provides a secure attachment point for a ball mount, which then connects to the trailer coupler.

Towing Capacity:

• Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): 10,000 lbs.
• Tongue Weight (TW): 1,000 lbs.
• Weight Distribution Capacity (WD): 12,000 lbs.
• Weight Distribution Tongue Weight (WDTW): 1,200 lbs.

WARNING: Never exceed the lowest weight capacity of any towing component (e.g., vehicle, hitch, ball mount, or trailer).

Connecting a Trailer:

1. Insert the appropriate ball mount into the 2-inch receiver tube opening.
2. Secure the ball mount with a hitch pin and clip.
3. Lower the trailer coupler onto the hitch ball.
4. Secure the coupler latch and attach safety chains.
5. Connect any necessary trailer wiring for lights and brakes.

Figure 3: The CURT 14090 Class 4 Trailer Hitch shown installed on the rear of a vehicle, ready for towing.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your trailer hitch.

• Inspect Regularly: Before each towing trip, inspect the hitch for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. Check all bolts and nuts for tightness.
• Clean the Receiver: Keep the receiver tube opening clean and free of dirt, rust, or debris. This ensures easy insertion and removal of ball mounts and accessories.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin coat of grease to the hitch ball and inside the receiver tube to prevent rust and facilitate connections.
• Rust Prevention: The hitch features a dual-coat finish for rust resistance. However, in harsh environments, additional rust-preventative sprays can be applied to exposed areas.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your trailer hitch, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Difficulty Inserting Ball Mount: Check the receiver tube for debris or rust. Clean thoroughly. Ensure the ball mount is the correct size (2-inch shank).
• Loose Hitch: Re-check the torque on all mounting bolts. Ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Excessive Noise During Towing: This could indicate a loose connection, an improperly seated ball mount, or issues with the trailer's coupler. Inspect all connections. For weight distribution hitches, ensure proper setup and tension.
• Rust Formation: While the hitch is rust-resistant, severe exposure can lead to rust. Clean affected areas with a wire brush and apply rust-inhibiting paint or coating.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

CURT stands behind the quality and durability of its products. For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official CURT website.

For further assistance, technical support, or to explore other CURT products, please visit the Official CURT Store on Amazon or contact CURT customer service directly.