1. Product Overview
The APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver is a Class 3 trailer hitch designed for specific vehicle compatibility, offering robust towing capabilities and enhanced durability. This manual provides essential information for installation, operation, and maintenance to ensure safe and effective use of your towing hitch.
Image 1.1: Front view of the APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver.
Key Features:
- Vehicle-Specific Fit: Custom designed for a precise fit compatible with Toyota Highlander 2014-2019, ensuring OE-style integration.
- Superior Towing Capacity: Rated to tow up to 6000 lbs weight carrying capacity, 900 lbs tongue weight, 8000 lbs weight distribution, and a weight distribution tongue weight capacity of 900 lbs.
- Safety Compliance: Rigorously tested to exceed V5 standards and comply with SAE J684 safety regulations.
- Enhanced Corrosion Protection: Features a triple-layer rust-resistant coating including pre-treated steel, special E-coating, and a durable black powder-coated finish.
- Simple Installation: Comes with all necessary hardware for a straightforward, no-drilling required, easy bolt-on installation.
2. Specifications
Detailed specifications for the APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | APS |
| Model | Highlander Receiver Hitch (HT-X30200) |
| Item Weight | 48.72 Pounds |
| Vehicle Service Type | Trailer |
| Material | Heavy Duty Carbon Steel |
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6000 Pounds (Weight Carrying) |
| Tongue Weight Capacity | 900 Pounds (Weight Carrying) |
| Weight Distribution Capacity | 8000 Pounds |
| Weight Distribution Tongue Weight Capacity | 900 Pounds |
| Receiver Size | 2-inch x 2-inch |
3. Setup and Installation
The APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver is designed for a straightforward, bolt-on installation without the need for drilling. Always ensure your vehicle is safely supported and follow all safety precautions during installation.
Required Tools (Not Included):
- Standard wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Installation Steps:
- Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. For safety, consider disconnecting the battery.
- Locate Mounting Points: Identify the factory mounting points on the vehicle's frame, typically near the rear bumper.
- Position Hitch: Carefully lift the hitch receiver into position, aligning the mounting holes on the hitch with the vehicle's frame. It may be helpful to have an assistant for this step.
- Install Hardware: Insert the provided bolts, washers, and nuts through the aligned holes. Ensure all hardware is correctly oriented.
- Tighten Fasteners: Hand-tighten all fasteners first to ensure proper alignment. Then, using a torque wrench, tighten all bolts to the specifications outlined in the detailed installation manual. Refer to the official Installation Manual (PDF) for precise torque values and step-by-step diagrams.
- Final Check: Verify that the hitch is securely mounted and all fasteners are tightened to the correct torque.
Image 3.1: APS Hitch Receiver and included installation hardware.
Image 3.2: Installed view of the hitch receiver on a vehicle, highlighting the quality of robotic welding.
4. Operating and Usage
The APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver provides a versatile connection point for various towing applications. Always adhere to your vehicle's towing guidelines and the hitch's maximum capacities.
Towing Guidelines:
- Ensure the trailer's gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW) do not exceed the hitch's rated capacities or your vehicle's towing limits, whichever is lower.
- Use appropriate hitch accessories (ball mounts, hitch balls, pins, clips) that are compatible with the 2-inch receiver opening.
- Always connect safety chains from the trailer to the designated chain loops on the hitch receiver.
- Before each tow, inspect the hitch, ball mount, and trailer connection for any signs of wear, damage, or loose fasteners.
Image 4.1: Examples of accessories and trailers compatible with the hitch receiver.
Image 4.2: Visual representation of the hitch's versatility for different towing needs.
Included Accessory:
Image 4.3: The included 2-inch hitch cover helps protect the receiver opening from dirt and debris when not in use.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver.
Corrosion Protection:
The hitch features a triple-layer rust-resistant coating for enhanced durability:
- Pre-treated Steel: Foundation for corrosion resistance.
- Special E-coating: Applied both inside and out for comprehensive protection.
- Durable Black Powder-Coated Finish: Provides an additional layer of defense against harsh environmental conditions and physical abrasion.
Image 5.1: Illustration of the multi-layer rust-resistant coating.
General Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly inspect the hitch for any signs of rust, chipping, or damage to the coating. Touch up any exposed areas with rust-inhibiting paint if necessary.
- Check all bolts and fasteners periodically to ensure they remain tight. Re-torque to specifications if any looseness is detected.
- Keep the receiver opening clean and free of dirt, debris, and moisture. A hitch cover (like the one included) can help protect it when not in use.
- Lubricate the hitch pin and receiver opening as needed to prevent seizing and ease insertion/removal of accessories.
6. Troubleshooting
While the APS Rear Towing Hitch Receiver is designed for durability and ease of use, some common issues may arise. Here are general troubleshooting tips:
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Loose Hitch: If the hitch feels loose after installation, re-check all mounting bolts. Ensure they are tightened to the specified torque values. Over time, bolts can loosen due to vibrations; regular checks are recommended.
- Difficulty Inserting Accessories: Ensure the receiver opening is clean and free of rust or debris. A wire brush can be used to clean the inside of the receiver. Applying a small amount of grease or lubricant to the hitch pin or accessory shank can also help.
- Rust Formation: Despite the protective coating, prolonged exposure to harsh conditions or physical damage can lead to rust. Clean the affected area thoroughly and apply a rust-inhibiting primer and paint.
- Unusual Noises During Towing: Check all connections, including the hitch ball, ball mount, and trailer coupler. Ensure the hitch pin is securely in place. Excessive play in the receiver can sometimes cause rattling; consider using an anti-rattle device if persistent.
If you encounter issues not covered here or require further assistance, please contact APS customer support.
7. Warranty and Support
APS is committed to providing high-quality products. For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official APS website.
Customer Support:
For technical assistance, installation questions, or warranty claims, please contact APS customer support through their official channels. You can often find contact information on the product packaging or the brand's official Amazon store page.
Visit the APS Store on Amazon for more product information and support resources.
