1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, safe operation, and maintenance of your APS Rear Trailer Hitch, Model HT-R30068. This Class 3 hitch receiver is specifically designed for Honda Odyssey vehicles manufactured between 1999 and 2017, offering a reliable solution for your towing needs. Please read these instructions thoroughly before installation and use to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Image 1.1: Overview of the APS Rear Trailer Hitch, Model HT-R30068, featuring a 2-inch receiver and a black powder-coated finish.
2. Safety Information
Your safety and the safety of others are paramount. Adhere to all safety guidelines during installation and operation.
- Vehicle Weight Rating: Never exceed the vehicle's maximum weight rating. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific towing capacities.
- Testing Standards: This trailer hitch receiver exceeds V5 standards and has been tested for safety in accordance with SAE J684.
- Professional Installation: While designed for easy installation, professional assistance is recommended if you are unfamiliar with vehicle modifications.
- Hardware: Use only the provided mounting hardware. Ensure all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the hitch for any signs of wear, damage, or loose fasteners, especially before and after towing.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components listed below are present in your package before beginning installation.
- 1 x APS Rear Trailer Hitch
- All necessary Mounting Hardware (bolts, washers, etc.)
- 1 x Trailer Hitch Rubber Cover
- 1 x DIY Instruction (this manual)
Image 3.1: Illustration of the included mounting hardware, consisting of various bolts and washers required for installation.
4. Setup and Installation
The APS Rear Trailer Hitch is designed for a direct bolt-on installation with no drilling required for compatible Honda Odyssey models (1999-2017). Follow these general steps for installation:
- Prepare Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. For safety, consider using jack stands.
- Locate Mounting Points: Identify the factory mounting points on the vehicle's frame at the rear. These are typically pre-drilled holes.
- Position Hitch: Carefully lift the trailer hitch into position, aligning the hitch's mounting brackets with the vehicle's frame holes. Assistance from another person or a floor jack may be helpful.
- Secure Hardware: Insert the provided bolts and washers through the aligned holes. Hand-tighten all fasteners initially.
- Final Tightening: Once all hardware is in place, progressively tighten all bolts to the vehicle manufacturer's torque specifications. Ensure a secure fit.
- Exhaust Clearance: Some installations may require temporarily lowering or adjusting the exhaust system for access to mounting points.
- Hitch Cover: Install the included rubber hitch cover into the receiver opening to protect it from dirt and debris when not in use.
For visual guidance, many online video tutorials specific to Honda Odyssey trailer hitch installations are available and can supplement these instructions.
Image 4.1: Depiction of the automatic robotic welding process used in manufacturing, ensuring precise and strong weld seams for the hitch's structural integrity.
5. Operating Instructions (Towing Guidelines)
This APS Rear Trailer Hitch is a Class 3 receiver, designed to accommodate a variety of towing applications. Always adhere to the specified weight capacities and safe towing practices.
5.1 Towing Capacities
- Weight Carrying Capacity: 3500 lbs (pounds)
- Tongue Weight (Weight Carrying): 350 lbs (pounds)
- Weight Distribution Capacity: 5000 lbs (pounds)
- Tongue Weight (Weight Distribution): 500 lbs (pounds)
Important: The actual towing capacity is limited by the lowest-rated component in your towing system, which includes the vehicle, hitch, hitch ball, and trailer coupler. Always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for its specific towing limits.
5.2 Compatible Accessories
The 2-inch x 2-inch receiver opening is compatible with a wide range of towing accessories:
- Trailer Hitch Ball Mounts
- Weight Distribution Systems
- Cargo Carriers
- Bike Carriers
- Various Trailers (e.g., utility, boat, camp, kayak)
Image 5.1: Visual representation of the versatility of the hitch, illustrating its use with weight distribution systems, trailer hitch ball mounts, cargo carriers, bike carriers, and various types of trailers including kayak, boat, camp, and utility trailers.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your trailer hitch.
- Corrosion Resistance: The hitch is protected by a durable high-gloss black powder coat finish, co-cured in a rust-resistant liquid aquence coating. This provides premium corrosion resistance against dust, chipping, and extreme weather conditions.
- Cleaning: Clean the hitch periodically with mild soap and water to remove dirt and road grime. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
- Fastener Check: Regularly check all mounting bolts and nuts for tightness. Re-torque if necessary, especially after the first few uses and before long trips.
- Receiver Tube: Keep the inside of the 2-inch receiver tube clean and free of debris. Use the included rubber cover when not towing to prevent accumulation of dirt and moisture.
Image 6.1: Cross-section diagram detailing the premium rust resistance features: pre-treatment steel, special 'E-coating' inside and out, and a dual-stage black powder-coated finish.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues during installation or use, consider the following:
- Fitment Issues: If bolt holes do not align perfectly, ensure the hitch is correctly positioned. Sometimes, minor adjustments to the vehicle's exhaust hangers or cleaning rust from existing bolt holes may be necessary.
- Loose Components: Re-check all fasteners for proper torque. Vibrations during towing can sometimes loosen bolts over time.
- Unusual Noises: Squeaking or rattling may indicate loose connections or insufficient lubrication on moving parts (e.g., hitch ball). Inspect and tighten as needed.
- Reduced Towing Performance: Ensure you are not exceeding the hitch's or vehicle's rated capacities. Improper weight distribution can also affect performance.
If problems persist, contact APS customer support for further assistance.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | APS |
| Model Number | HT-R30068 |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Honda Odyssey 1999-2017 |
| Hitch Class | Class 3 |
| Receiver Size | 2 inch x 2 inch |
| Weight Carrying Capacity | 3500 lbs |
| Tongue Weight (WC) | 350 lbs |
| Weight Distribution Capacity | 5000 lbs |
| Tongue Weight (WD) | 500 lbs |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish | High-gloss black powder coat with liquid aquence coating |
| Safety Standards | Exceeds V5 standards, tested in accordance with SAE J684 |
| Installation | No drilling required, bolt-on |
| Item Weight | 38.8 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 60 x 20 x 8 inches |
Image 8.1: Detailed view of the 2-inch receiver opening, highlighting its standard dimensions for compatibility with various towing accessories.
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding product warranty, returns, or technical support, please contact APS directly through their official website or the retailer from whom the product was purchased. Keep your purchase receipt and product model number (HT-R30068) readily available when contacting support.
