Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the CURT 60700 Original-Equipment-Style Gooseneck Hitch. Designed for Ford Super Duty trucks, this hitch offers a 30,000 lbs. Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) capacity with a 2-5/16-inch ball. It is engineered for straightforward installation and reliable towing performance.
Safety Information
WARNING:
- Always read and understand all instructions before installation and use.
- Ensure all fasteners are tightened to the specified torque values. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific towing capacities and recommendations.
- Do not exceed the maximum weight rating of the hitch (30,000 lbs. GTW) or your vehicle's towing capacity, whichever is lower.
- Always use safety chains when towing. Ensure they are properly connected and rated for the load.
- Regularly inspect the hitch for wear, damage, or corrosion before each use. Do not use if damaged.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during installation, including safety glasses and gloves.
Components and Package Contents
The CURT 60700 Gooseneck Hitch package typically includes the following main components:
- Gooseneck Hitch Frame Assembly
- 2-5/16" Gooseneck Ball with Latch Mechanism
- Safety Chain Anchors (5/8" heavy-duty)
- Mounting Hardware (bolts, nuts, washers)
- Friction-fit Rubber Hole Cover
Figure 1: Overview of the CURT 60700 Gooseneck Hitch assembly, showing the main frame, gooseneck ball, and safety chain loops.
Figure 2: Diagram highlighting key features such as the 2-5/16" OEM-style ball, heavy-duty 5/8" safety chain loops, and the bolt-on installation method.
Setup and Installation
The CURT 60700 Gooseneck Hitch is designed for a one-person installation, utilizing existing factory holes on Ford Super Duty trucks. No welding, bed flange trimming, or temporary truck bed removal is required. Exhaust or spare tire lowering is also not necessary.
Required Tools:
- Standard wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Drill and appropriate drill bits (for truck bed holes)
- Measuring tape
- Center punch
- Safety glasses and gloves
Installation Steps:
- Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Ensure the truck bed is clear of obstructions.
- Position Hitch Frame: Carefully lift and position the gooseneck hitch frame underneath the truck bed, aligning it with the pre-existing factory holes in the truck's frame. The design allows for compact pieces to be maneuvered without lowering the exhaust or spare tire.
- Secure Frame: Insert the provided mounting hardware through the factory holes and secure the hitch frame to the truck's frame. Keep all bolts loose initially to allow for adjustment.
- Mark and Drill Bed Holes: Once the hitch frame is loosely secured and aligned, use the hitch's central opening as a guide to mark the location for the 2-5/16" gooseneck ball hole in the truck bed. Also mark the locations for the safety chain anchor holes. Carefully drill these holes through the truck bed.
- Install Gooseneck Ball and Safety Chains: Insert the 2-5/16" gooseneck ball into its designated hole from above the truck bed. Install the heavy-duty 5/8" safety chain anchors into their respective drilled holes.
- Final Tightening: Once all components are in place and aligned, progressively tighten all mounting hardware to the manufacturer's specified torque values. Refer to the included hardware instructions for specific torque settings.
- Install Rubber Hole Cover: Place the friction-fit rubber hole cover into the gooseneck ball opening when the ball is not in use, to protect the mechanism from debris.
Figure 3: The CURT 60700 Gooseneck Hitch installed in a truck bed, showing the gooseneck ball and safety chain anchors ready for use.
Operating Instructions
Attaching a Gooseneck Trailer:
- Prepare Gooseneck Ball: Ensure the 2-5/16" gooseneck ball is properly installed and locked into the hitch mechanism. The patented latch-locking system requires a simple quarter-turn to secure the ball in place. Retention balls within the mechanism prevent the ball from disengaging.
- Position Trailer: Carefully back your truck under the gooseneck trailer's coupler.
- Lower Coupler: Lower the trailer's coupler onto the gooseneck ball. Ensure the coupler fully engages and locks onto the ball according to the trailer manufacturer's instructions.
- Connect Safety Chains: Attach the trailer's safety chains to the heavy-duty 5/8" safety chain anchors located in the truck bed. Cross the chains under the gooseneck coupler to provide maximum security in case of detachment.
- Connect Electrical: Connect the trailer's electrical plug to the truck's receptacle. Test all lights and brakes.
- Final Check: Before driving, perform a thorough visual inspection to ensure all connections are secure and the trailer is properly loaded.
Figure 4: Close-up view of the 2-5/16" gooseneck ball's quarter-turn latch system, illustrating how it locks into place.
Detaching a Gooseneck Trailer:
- Park Safely: Park the truck and trailer on a level surface and engage the parking brake on both the truck and trailer.
- Disconnect Electrical and Safety Chains: Disconnect the trailer's electrical plug and unhook the safety chains from the anchors.
- Raise Coupler: Use the trailer's jack to raise the coupler off the gooseneck ball.
- Remove Gooseneck Ball (Optional): If not towing, the gooseneck ball can be removed by performing a quarter-turn of the latch mechanism and lifting it out. Install the rubber hole cover.
Figure 5: The friction-fit rubber hole cover, designed to protect the gooseneck ball opening from dirt and debris when the ball is removed.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your CURT Gooseneck Hitch.
- Inspection: Before each use, visually inspect the hitch for any signs of wear, damage, cracks, or corrosion. Pay close attention to welds, bolts, and the gooseneck ball mechanism.
- Cleaning: Clean the hitch regularly, especially after exposure to road salt, dirt, or harsh weather conditions. Use mild soap and water, then rinse thoroughly.
- Corrosion Protection: The hitch features a tough A-coat finish designed to resist rust and scratches. However, if the finish is damaged, touch up with a rust-inhibiting paint to prevent corrosion.
- Lubrication: Periodically lubricate the moving parts of the gooseneck ball latch mechanism with a light grease or silicone spray to ensure smooth operation.
- Fastener Check: Periodically check all mounting bolts and nuts for tightness. Re-torque to specifications if necessary.
- Storage: When the gooseneck ball is not in use, remove it and install the friction-fit rubber hole cover to protect the internal mechanism from debris and moisture.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Gooseneck ball difficult to install or remove. | Lack of lubrication; debris in mechanism; damaged latch. | Clean and lubricate the latch mechanism. Inspect for debris and remove. If damaged, contact support. |
| Excessive play or rattling during towing. | Loose mounting bolts; worn gooseneck ball or coupler. | Check and re-torque all mounting bolts. Inspect gooseneck ball and trailer coupler for wear and replace if necessary. |
| Corrosion or rust appearing on hitch. | Damage to A-coat finish; prolonged exposure to harsh elements. | Clean affected areas thoroughly. Apply rust-inhibiting paint to damaged finish. Ensure regular cleaning and proper storage. |
| Safety chains do not fit anchors. | Incorrect safety chain size; improper connection method. | Ensure safety chains are compatible with 5/8" anchors. Consult trailer manual for proper chain connection. |
Specifications
- Model: CURT 60700
- Brand: CURT Manufacturing
- Gooseneck Ball Size: 2-5/16 inches
- Gross Trailer Weight (GTW): 30,000 lbs. (13,607.77 kg)
- Vehicle Service Type: Truck (Ford Super Duty OEM-style fit)
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Finish: Liquid Aquence Coating (A-coat), Powder Coated
- Item Weight: Approximately 54.4 kg (120 lbs)
- Product Dimensions: 60.96 cm x 20.32 cm x 45.72 cm (24 in x 8 in x 18 in)
- Safety Chain Anchors: 5/8 inch heavy-duty
- Standards: Rated to SAE J2638 standards
Figure 6: Diagram illustrating the approximate dimensions of the CURT 60700 Gooseneck Hitch, including overall length, width, and ball height.
Warranty and Support
The CURT 60700 Gooseneck Hitch is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. For specific terms, conditions, and limitations of the warranty, please refer to the official CURT Manufacturing warranty documentation or visit their website.
Customer Support:
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or replacement parts, please contact CURT Manufacturing customer support:
- Website: www.curtmfg.com
- Phone: Refer to the CURT Manufacturing website for regional contact numbers.
- Email: Refer to the CURT Manufacturing website for support email addresses.
When contacting support, please have your product model number (60700) and purchase information readily available.
