1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the CURT 15860 Commercial Duty Class 5 Trailer Hitch. Designed for heavy-duty towing applications, this hitch is engineered to meet the demands of commercial and large-scale hauling.
The CURT 15860 is constructed from robust steel, designed to complement the towing capabilities of full-size commercial pickup trucks, including diesel and chassis cab models. It is suitable for towing a variety of oversized trailers, such as toy haulers, car haulers, livestock trailers, dumper trailers, large flatbed trailers, and large boat trailers.
Important: Always ensure that the total weight of the trailer and its contents does not exceed the lowest weight capacity of any component in your towing system, including the hitch, vehicle, and any other towing accessories.
2. Safety Information
Read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before installing or operating this trailer hitch. Failure to follow these instructions could result in serious injury or property damage.
- Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Always verify that all towing components (hitch, ball mount, hitch ball, pin, clip, safety chains) are correctly installed and securely fastened before towing.
- Never exceed the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) or Tongue Weight (TW) ratings of the hitch or your vehicle, whichever is lower.
- Regularly inspect the hitch for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Do not use if damaged.
- Ensure proper lighting and braking systems are functional on both the tow vehicle and trailer.
- This Class 5 hitch is tested according to SAE J684 specifications to ensure safety under real-world conditions.
3. Product Overview
The CURT 15860 Commercial Duty Class 5 Trailer Hitch is designed for maximum strength and durability, providing a reliable towing solution for demanding applications.
Figure 1: The CURT 15860 Commercial Duty Class 5 Trailer Hitch, showcasing its robust construction and 2-1/2 inch receiver tube.
Key Features:
- Maximum Strength: Engineered with a large, powerful main body for dependable performance.
- Heavy-Duty Receiver: Equipped with a standard 2-1/2-inch hitch receiver, compatible with various heavy-duty towing accessories.
- Durable Finish: Features an industry-leading co-curing of liquid A-coat and tough carbide black powder coat for exceptional rust resistance.
- Vehicle-Specific Design: Custom-fit for select Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD / 3500 HD models.
- Tested for Safety: Rigorously tested according to SAE J684 specifications for on-vehicle, real-world conditions.
Figure 2: Diagram illustrating the key features of the CURT 15860 hitch, including its vehicle-specific design, dual-coat finish, standard hitch receiver, and fully tested design.
Figure 3: A close-up view of the 2-1/2 inch standard hitch receiver, designed to accommodate heavy-duty towing accessories.
Figure 4: Components of the CURT hitch undergoing the dual-coat finishing process, which includes liquid A-coat and carbide black powder coat for enhanced rust resistance.
Figure 5: The CURT hitch being subjected to advanced testing procedures, ensuring compliance with SAE J684 specifications for safety and performance.
Figure 6: Welding sparks during the manufacturing process of a CURT hitch, highlighting the robust construction.
4. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 15860 |
| Brand | CURT |
| Receiver Tube Size | 2-1/2 inches x 2-1/2 inches |
| Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) | 20,000 lbs (9071.85 kg) |
| Tongue Weight (TW) | 2,700 lbs |
| Weight Distribution (WD) | 20,000 lbs |
| Weight Distribution Tongue Weight (WDTW) | 2,700 lbs |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish Type | Liquid A-coat and Carbide Black Powder Coat |
| Item Weight | 84.5 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 31 x 43 x 11 inches |
| Vehicle Service Type | Truck |
| Position | Rear |
| OEM Part Number | 15860 |
| UPC | 612314158607 |
Figure 7: Visual representation of the 2-1/2 inch receiver tube size, indicating compatibility with heavy-duty towing accessories.
5. Vehicle Compatibility
The CURT 15860 Trailer Hitch is designed for a vehicle-specific fit. It is compatible with select model years of the following trucks:
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD
- GMC Sierra 2500 HD
- GMC Sierra 3500 HD
To ensure precise compatibility with your specific vehicle year and model, please refer to the manufacturer's official product page or contact CURT customer support.
6. What's in the Box
Upon unpacking your CURT 15860 Trailer Hitch, you should find the following components:
- One (1) CURT 15860 Commercial Duty Class 5 Trailer Hitch
- All necessary Grade-8 mounting hardware
- Installation Instructions (this manual)
If any components are missing or damaged, please contact CURT customer support immediately before proceeding with installation.
7. Setup and Installation
Installation of the CURT 15860 hitch is designed to be straightforward for compatible vehicles. However, due to the weight and size of the hitch, it is recommended that installation be performed by two people or with appropriate lifting equipment.
Required Tools (Not Included):
- Standard wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Drill (for certain short bed models, if new holes are required)
- Ratchet strap or similar (may assist with frame alignment)
- Safety glasses and gloves
Installation Steps:
- Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and allow the exhaust system to cool. If necessary, temporarily lower the spare tire for better access.
- Position Hitch: Carefully lift the hitch into position, aligning it with the existing mounting holes on the vehicle's frame. It may be helpful to use a ratchet strap to temporarily hold the hitch in place or to assist with minor frame alignment.
- Secure with Hardware: Insert the provided Grade-8 hardware through the hitch and vehicle frame. Hand-tighten all bolts to ensure proper alignment before final tightening.
- Drilling (if required): For some short bed truck models, additional holes may need to be drilled into the frame. Use appropriate drilling techniques and ensure precise alignment. Refer to the specific vehicle application guide for detailed instructions on drilling.
- Final Tightening: Once all bolts are in place and aligned, tighten them to the torque specifications provided in your vehicle's service manual or the specific CURT installation guide for your model. Ensure all fasteners are securely torqued.
- Final Inspection: Double-check all connections and ensure the hitch is securely mounted and level. Reinstall the spare tire if it was removed.
If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from a qualified automotive technician or professional installer.
Figure 8: A technician inspecting the underside of a vehicle, demonstrating the area where the hitch will be installed. Proper inspection and preparation are crucial for a successful installation.
8. Operating Instructions
The CURT 15860 Class 5 Trailer Hitch is designed for heavy-duty towing. Proper operation involves selecting and connecting appropriate towing accessories and adhering to weight limits.
Connecting a Trailer:
- Select Accessories: Use a ball mount, hitch ball, and hitch pin/clip that are rated for or exceed the maximum towing capacity of your trailer and the CURT 15860 hitch. The 2-1/2 inch receiver tube is compatible with various heavy-duty ball mounts, pintle mounts, tow hooks, winch mounts, and cargo carriers.
- Insert Ball Mount: Slide the chosen ball mount into the 2-1/2 inch receiver tube of the hitch. Align the pinholes.
- Secure Ball Mount: Insert the hitch pin through the aligned holes and secure it with the clip. Ensure the pin is fully engaged and the clip is properly secured.
- Attach Trailer: Lower the trailer coupler onto the hitch ball. Ensure the coupler is fully seated and locked onto the ball.
- Connect Safety Chains: Cross the safety chains under the trailer tongue and attach them to the designated chain loops on the hitch. Ensure there is enough slack for turns but not so much that they drag on the ground.
- Connect Electrical: Plug in the trailer's electrical connector to the vehicle's receptacle. Test all trailer lights (running lights, brake lights, turn signals) and trailer brakes (if applicable).
- Final Check: Before driving, perform a final visual inspection of all connections, ensuring everything is secure and properly engaged.
Towing Considerations:
- Weight Limits: Never exceed the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) of 20,000 lbs or the Tongue Weight (TW) of 2,700 lbs. Always adhere to the lowest weight rating of any component in your towing setup.
- Load Distribution: Properly distribute the load within your trailer to maintain appropriate tongue weight and vehicle stability.
- Driving Habits: Adjust your driving style when towing. Allow for increased braking distances, wider turns, and reduced speeds, especially on inclines or declines.
- Regular Checks: During long trips, periodically stop to check the security of the hitch, ball mount, hitch ball, pin, safety chains, and electrical connections.
Figure 9: A truck towing a trailer, illustrating the CURT hitch in use. Proper connection and adherence to towing guidelines are essential for safe operation.
9. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your CURT 15860 Trailer Hitch will ensure its longevity and safe operation.
- Routine Inspection: Before each use, visually inspect the hitch for any signs of damage, cracks, bends, or excessive wear. Check all bolts and fasteners for tightness.
- Corrosion Protection: The hitch features a durable liquid A-coat and carbide black powder coat finish for rust resistance. However, exposure to harsh weather conditions, road salt, and debris can still lead to surface corrosion over time. Clean the hitch regularly with mild soap and water.
- Rust Treatment: If surface rust appears, clean the affected area thoroughly and apply a rust-inhibiting primer and paint to prevent further corrosion.
- Receiver Tube Care: Keep the inside of the receiver tube clean and free of debris. Lubricate the receiver tube and hitch pin with a light grease or silicone spray to prevent seizing and ease insertion/removal of accessories.
- Hardware Check: Periodically re-torque all mounting hardware to the manufacturer's specifications, especially after the first few uses and after heavy towing.
10. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your CURT 15860 Trailer Hitch.
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Issue: Hitch appears uneven after installation.
Solution: Verify proper alignment with the vehicle frame. Ensure all mounting points are correctly secured and torqued according to specifications. Minor adjustments during installation, possibly with a ratchet strap, may be necessary to achieve perfect alignment. If the issue persists, professional installation or consultation with an automotive technician is recommended.
- Issue: Missing hardware upon receipt.
Solution: If any Grade-8 mounting hardware is missing from the package, do not attempt to install the hitch with substitute hardware. Contact CURT customer support immediately to request replacement parts.
- Issue: Surface rust developing on the hitch.
Solution: While the hitch features a durable dual-coat finish, prolonged exposure to harsh elements can lead to surface rust. Clean the affected area thoroughly with a wire brush or sandpaper to remove loose rust. Apply a rust-inhibiting primer followed by a suitable exterior-grade paint to protect the metal and maintain the hitch's appearance and integrity.
- Issue: Difficulty inserting or removing ball mount/accessories from receiver.
Solution: Ensure the receiver tube is clean and free of dirt or debris. Apply a light coating of grease or silicone spray to the inside of the receiver tube and the shank of the accessory to facilitate easier insertion and removal.
For issues not covered here, or if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, please contact CURT customer support.
11. Warranty and Support
For detailed information regarding the warranty coverage for your CURT 15860 Commercial Duty Class 5 Trailer Hitch, please refer to the official CURT website or the warranty documentation included with your purchase. Warranty terms and conditions may vary.
Customer Support:
If you require technical assistance, have questions about installation, or need to report a missing/damaged part, please contact CURT customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the official CURT website or on your product packaging.
When contacting support, please have your product model number (15860) and purchase information readily available.
