CURT 17550 Replacement TruTrack 4P Weight Distribution Hitch Hardware Kit User Manual

1. Introduction

This user manual provides comprehensive instructions and important information for the CURT 17550 Replacement TruTrack 4P Weight Distribution Hitch Hardware Kit. This kit is designed to replace essential hardware components for your CURT TruTrack weight distribution hitch, specifically models #17499 and #17500. Proper installation and maintenance of these components are crucial for the safe and effective operation of your towing system.

Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any installation or replacement procedures. Keep this manual for future reference.

2. Product Overview and Components

The CURT 17550 kit provides replacement hardware necessary for attaching the weight distribution head, adjustable shank, and spring bars of your TruTrack 4P weight distribution hitch. All components are constructed from strong steel with a corrosion-resistant clear zinc finish.

2.1. What's in the Box

• 1 TruTrack Trunnion Bar Replacement Bolt Kit

2.2. Kit Components Illustration

Figure 1: Components of the CURT 17550 Hardware Kit

This image displays all components included in the CURT 17550 hardware kit. It features two large, threaded bolts with hexagonal heads, two corresponding hexagonal nuts, two flat, diamond-shaped plates with two holes each, two square-shaped hitch pins with attached retaining clips, and one bent pin with an R-clip. All components are made of metal with a clear, corrosion-resistant finish, designed for durability and proper fit within the TruTrack system.

3. Setup and Installation

This kit provides replacement hardware. Installation involves removing the old, worn, or damaged hardware and installing the new components in their place. Always refer to the original CURT TruTrack weight distribution hitch manual for detailed assembly and torque specifications.

3.1. Compatibility

This hardware kit is compatible with the CURT TruTrack weight distribution hitch models #17499 and #17500. Ensure your hitch model matches these specifications before proceeding with replacement.

3.2. General Installation Steps (Consult Original Hitch Manual for Details)

1. Safety First: Ensure the vehicle and trailer are on a level surface, properly chocked, and stable before beginning any work. Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle if necessary.
2. Remove Old Hardware: Carefully remove the existing bolts, nuts, pins, and clips that are being replaced. Note their original positions and orientation.
3. Clean Surfaces: Clean any mating surfaces on the hitch head, shank, or spring bars to ensure proper fit and torque.
4. Install New Hardware: Insert the new bolts, nuts, pins, and clips into their correct positions. Ensure all components are seated properly.
5. Torque Specifications: It is critical to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque settings. For large bolts, a torque of 200 ft-lbs is often required. Use a calibrated torque wrench to achieve accurate tightness. Improper torque can lead to component failure and unsafe towing conditions.
6. Secure Pins: Ensure all safety pins and clips are fully inserted and secured to prevent accidental disengagement.
7. Final Inspection: Double-check all connections and hardware for proper installation and tightness before towing.

4. Operation

Once the replacement hardware is correctly installed and torqued, the TruTrack weight distribution system should operate as intended. The hardware kit itself does not have an operational function beyond securing the main components of the hitch. The proper operation of the weight distribution system relies on the correct assembly and adjustment of all hitch components, including the newly installed hardware.

Always perform a pre-tow inspection to ensure all hitch components, including the hardware, are secure and free from damage or excessive wear. Pay particular attention to the tightness of all bolts and the security of all pins and clips.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your CURT TruTrack hardware kit components will extend their lifespan and ensure continued safe operation.

• Regular Inspection: Before each tow, visually inspect all bolts, nuts, pins, and clips for signs of wear, corrosion, bending, or cracking. Replace any damaged components immediately.
• Check Torque: Periodically re-check the torque of all bolts, especially after the first few hundred miles of towing and before long trips. Vibrations during towing can sometimes loosen fasteners.
• Cleaning: Keep the hardware clean from dirt, road grime, and salt. While the clear zinc finish provides corrosion resistance, regular cleaning will help maintain its integrity.
• Lubrication: Consult your original TruTrack hitch manual for any specific lubrication requirements for the hitch components. The hardware itself typically does not require lubrication, but ensuring the overall hitch system is properly lubricated can prevent undue stress on fasteners.

6. Troubleshooting

Issues related to the hardware kit typically stem from improper installation or component wear.

• Loose Bolts/Nuts: If bolts or nuts become loose, re-torque them to the specified setting (e.g., 200 ft-lbs for large bolts). If they repeatedly loosen, inspect the threads on both the bolt and the mating component for damage. Replace if threads are stripped or worn.
• Bent or Damaged Pins/Clips: If pins or clips are bent, corroded, or difficult to insert/remove, replace them immediately. Do not force damaged pins.
• Excessive Wear: If any hardware component shows signs of excessive wear, such as thinning metal, deep gouges, or deformation, it should be replaced to prevent failure.
• Unusual Noises: If you hear clunking or rattling noises from the hitch area after hardware replacement, re-check all connections for tightness and ensure all pins are fully seated.

If you encounter persistent issues or are unsure about any aspect of installation or maintenance, contact CURT customer support or a qualified towing professional.

7. Specifications

7.1. Key Features

• Compatible with CURT TruTrack weight distribution hitch #17499 and #17500.
• Strong steel construction for durability.
• Corrosion-resistant clear zinc finish for extended life.
• Includes replacement pins, clips, nuts, and bolts.

8. Safety Information

CALIFORNIA WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Always follow all safety guidelines provided in your vehicle's owner's manual and the original CURT TruTrack weight distribution hitch manual. Ensure all components are correctly installed and maintained to prevent accidents and ensure safe towing.

9. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding the CURT 17550 Replacement TruTrack 4P Weight Distribution Hitch Hardware Kit, please refer to the documentation included with your original CURT TruTrack hitch or visit the official CURT website. Warranty terms and conditions are subject to change by the manufacturer.

For technical support, installation assistance, or to inquire about replacement parts not included in this kit, please contact CURT customer service directly. You can typically find contact information on the CURT website or in the original product packaging.

CURT Official Website: www.curtmfg.com