1. Product Overview
The CURT 11599 Class 1 Trailer Hitch is a light-duty towing receiver designed specifically for select Mazda CX-30 vehicles. Engineered for a custom fit, it provides seamless integration and optimal towing capacity for various light-duty applications.
This hitch is rated for a gross trailer weight (GTW) of 2,000 lbs. and a tongue weight (TW) of 200 lbs. It features a standard 1-1/4-inch receiver tube opening, suitable for a ball mount shank or other hitch-mounted accessories like bike racks or cargo carriers. The hitch is constructed from high-strength carbon steel and features a dual-coat finish, including a liquid A-coat and a durable black powder coat, for superior resistance against rust, chips, and UV rays. All CURT hitches are thoroughly tested to SAE J684 specifications for safety.
Figure 1.1: CURT 11599 Class 1 Trailer Hitch
Key Features:
- Dependable Strength: Rated for 2,000 lbs. GTW and 200 lbs. TW.
- Highly Versatile: Standard 1-1/4-inch receiver hitch (not compatible with vertical hanging bike racks).
- Dual-Coat Finish: Liquid A-coat and black powder coat for industry-leading rust, chip, and UV resistance.
- Easy Installation: Designed for a factory fit on select Mazda CX-30 models.
- Tested for Safety: Each design is thoroughly tested to SAE J684 specifications.
Video 1.1: Overview of CURT 11599 Class 1 Trailer Hitch. This video highlights the key features and benefits of the product, including its design, finish, and testing standards.
2. Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | CURT |
| Model Number | 11599 |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car (Mazda CX-30) |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Finish Type | GLOSS BLACK POWDER COAT |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (GTW) | 2000 Pounds |
| Tongue Weight (TW) | 200 Pounds |
| Receiver Tube Size | 1-1/4 inch |
| Item Weight | 27.8 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 41 x 19 x 9 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Figure 2.1: Receiver Tube Size
3. Installation
The CURT 11599 trailer hitch is designed for a custom, factory-fit installation on select Mazda CX-30 models, often requiring no drilling into the vehicle's frame. Installation typically involves mounting the hitch to existing frame holes and may require lowering the exhaust for access.
General Installation Considerations:
- Vehicle-Specific Design: This hitch is engineered to fit the specific contours of the Mazda CX-30, ensuring a precise and secure attachment.
- No Drilling Required: For most applications, this hitch utilizes existing mounting points on the vehicle's frame, eliminating the need for drilling.
- Exhaust Access: It may be necessary to temporarily lower the vehicle's exhaust system to gain sufficient access to the mounting points.
- Hardware and Tools: Ensure all necessary mounting hardware is present. Refer to the detailed installation instructions provided with your product for specific tool requirements and torque specifications.
- Assistance: While installation can be performed by an individual, having a helper can significantly ease the process, especially when aligning and securing the hitch.
For detailed, step-by-step installation instructions, please refer to the specific guide included with your CURT 11599 trailer hitch or visit the official CURT Manufacturing website for model-specific installation videos and documents.
Figure 3.1: No Drilling Required for Installation
Figure 3.2: Overview of Hitch Features and Benefits
4. Operating the Trailer Hitch
Once installed, your CURT Class 1 trailer hitch provides a reliable connection point for towing light trailers or carrying hitch-mounted accessories. Proper operation involves understanding its capacities and ensuring secure connections.
Usage Guidelines:
- Weight Capacity: Always adhere to the maximum gross trailer weight (2,000 lbs.) and tongue weight (200 lbs.) ratings of the hitch. Never exceed the lowest weight capacity of any towing component, including your vehicle, the hitch, the ball mount, or the trailer itself.
- Receiver Compatibility: The 1-1/4-inch receiver is designed for standard ball mounts and compatible accessories. Ensure any accessory used is designed for this receiver size. Note that this hitch is generally not compatible with vertical hanging bike racks that require bikes to be mounted vertically.
- Secure Connection: Always ensure the ball mount or accessory is fully inserted into the receiver tube and secured with a hitch pin and clip. For towing, ensure the trailer coupler is properly latched onto the ball and safety chains are correctly attached.
- Lighting and Wiring: If towing a trailer, ensure all trailer lights are functional and properly connected to your vehicle's electrical system.
Figure 4.1: Standard Hitch Receiver with Safety Chain Loops
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your CURT trailer hitch will ensure its longevity and continued safe operation. The dual-coat finish provides excellent protection, but periodic inspection is crucial.
Maintenance Schedule:
- Before Each Use: Visually inspect the hitch for any signs of damage, cracks, excessive rust, or loose bolts. Ensure the receiver tube is clear of debris.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the hitch periodically with mild soap and water to remove dirt, salt, and road grime. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry.
- Inspect Finish: While the dual-coat finish is highly durable, inspect for any chips or scratches that could expose bare metal. Touch up any damaged areas with a rust-preventative paint to maintain protection.
- Bolt Torque: Periodically check the torque of all mounting bolts, especially after the first few uses and after significant towing. Refer to your installation instructions for specific torque values.
- Lubrication: Apply a light coat of grease to the inside of the receiver tube and to the hitch pin to prevent rust and ease insertion/removal of accessories.
Figure 5.1: Dual-Coat Finish Application Process
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues that may arise with your trailer hitch.
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Exhaust Rattle: If the exhaust system rattles against the hitch, especially during certain gears or temperatures, inspect the clearance. This can sometimes be resolved by adjusting the exhaust hangers or installing a new rubber spacer to increase the distance between the hitch and exhaust. A rubber bumper guard can also be added between the exhaust and bumper to minimize noise.
- Hitch Wobble/Play: If there is excessive movement or wobble when an accessory is inserted into the receiver, ensure the hitch pin is fully engaged. Consider using a hitch tightener or anti-rattle device, especially with cargo carriers or bike racks, to reduce play.
- Difficulty Inserting/Removing Accessories: Ensure the receiver tube is clean and free of debris. A light application of grease or lubricant inside the receiver tube can help. Check for any deformation of the receiver tube or the accessory shank.
- Rust Formation: Despite the protective coating, rust can occur if the finish is chipped or scratched. Address any exposed metal promptly by cleaning the area and applying a rust-inhibiting paint.
- Mounting Bolts Loosening: Regularly check and re-torque all mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified values. Loose bolts can compromise the hitch's integrity and safety.
If you encounter issues not covered here or require further assistance, please contact CURT customer support.
Figure 6.1: Hitch Undergoing Rigorous Testing
7. Safety Information
Your CURT trailer hitch is designed and tested for safety in accordance with SAE J684 specifications. However, safe towing and usage practices are paramount to prevent accidents and ensure personal safety.
Important Safety Guidelines:
- Weight Limits: Never exceed the stated gross trailer weight (GTW) or tongue weight (TW) of the hitch, your vehicle, or any other towing component.
- Proper Connection: Always ensure the trailer coupler is securely latched onto the hitch ball and that safety chains are properly crossed and attached to the vehicle's frame or designated attachment points.
- Braking Distance: Towing a trailer increases your vehicle's braking distance. Allow for extra stopping distance, especially in adverse weather conditions.
- Speed Limits: Adhere to reduced speed limits for towing, as specified by local regulations and your vehicle's manufacturer.
- Pre-Trip Inspection: Before each trip, perform a thorough inspection of the hitch, ball mount, trailer coupler, safety chains, and all lighting connections.
- Proposition 65 Warning: This product may expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
8. Warranty and Support
CURT Manufacturing stands behind the quality of its products. For specific warranty information regarding your CURT 11599 Class 1 Trailer Hitch, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your purchase or visit the official CURT website.
Customer Support:
If you have questions about installation, operation, maintenance, or require technical assistance, please contact CURT customer support through their official website or the contact information provided in your product packaging.
Website: www.curtmfg.com
Figure 8.1: Made in USA
