CURT 13149 Trailer Hitch Installation Instructions

Towing Capacity

Weight Carrying: Trailer Weight: 3,500 LBS. Tongue Weight: 525 LBS.

Weight Distribution: Trailer Weight: 4,000 LBS. Tongue Weight: 525 LBS.

Warning: Never exceed your vehicle manufacturer's recommended towing capacity.

Installation Overview

Professional Install Time: 15 Minutes

Novice Install Time: 30 Minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Tools Required: 17mm & 19mm Sockets, 8" Socket Extension, Socket Wrench, Torque Wrench, Wire Pipe Brush.

Installation Tips: Read all instructions thoroughly before beginning. Two people may be required for easier installation. Using proper tools will improve installation quality and reduce time. Contact CURT Technical Support at 1-877-287-8634 for assistance.

Parts List

Installation Steps

1. If present, remove the vehicle's interior trim panel and tie-down bracket from the driver's side frame rail using the 17mm socket, 8" extension, and ratchet. Keep the bracket and fasteners for the vehicle owner.
2. Lower the rear exhaust isolator for easier access.
3. Raise the hitch into position over the existing frame rail weld nuts. Install the supplied 12mm hex bolts and conical tooth washers.
4. Raise the exhaust back into its original location and reinstall the rubber isolator.
5. Torque all hardware to 86 lb-ft.

Note: Clean existing weld nuts in the frame using a pipe brush. No drilling is required for this installation.

Periodic Checks

Periodically check the receiver hitch to ensure that all fasteners are tight and all structural components are sound.

Warranty Information

CURT Manufacturing LLC. warrants this product to be free of defects in material and/or workmanship at the time of retail purchase by the original purchaser. If the product is found to be defective, CURT Manufacturing LLC. may repair or replace the product, at their option, when the product is returned, prepaid, with proof of purchase. Alteration to, misuse of, or improper installation of this product voids the warranty. CURT Manufacturing LLC.'s liability is limited to repair or replacement of products found to be defective, and specifically excludes liability for incidental or consequential loss or damage.

Towing Safety Information

Gross Trailer Weight / GTW

The Gross Trailer Weight is the weight of the trailer and cargo. Measure this by putting the fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale.

Tongue Weight / TW

The downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the coupler. Tongue weight varies based on load positioning relative to trailer axles. Measure using a commercial scale or a bathroom scale at towing height. For heavier tongue weights on a bathroom scale, multiply the reading by 3.

Weight Carrying / WC

The total weight of the trailer and cargo inside. Never exceed the weight capacity of your trailer hitch.

Weight Distribution / WD

Used to balance cargo weight between the front and rear wheels of the trailer, improving steering, braking, and level riding.

Sway Control

A device to reduce lateral trailer movements caused by wind. Works with weight distribution hitches. Do not use on Class 1 or 2 hitches, or with surge brakes.

How Much Can You Safely Tow?

Tongue weight should be about 10 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight. Refer to owner's manual for specific towing capabilities and limitations.

Ball Mount

The ball mount is placed inside the receiver hitch opening. Ensure a hitch pin and clip properly secures it before towing.

Trailer Ball

The connection from the hitch to the trailer. Ensure the hitch ball's gross trailer weight rating matches your needs. The mounting platform must be at least 3/8" thick, and the hole diameter should not be more than 1/16" larger than the threaded shank. Always check that the nut and lock washer are securely fastened before towing.

Coupler

The component placed over the trailer ball. Ensure the coupler size matches the hitch ball size and the coupler handle is securely fastened. Safety devices like Coupler Safety Pins and Locks are recommended.

Safety Chains

Safety chains are required and should be crossed under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from hitting the road if separation occurs. Leave enough slack for turning, but do not let them drag on the ground or attach to the bumper. Minimum breaking force for safety chains varies by trailer class (Class 1: 2,000 lbs, Class 2: 3,500 lbs, Class 3: 5,000 lbs).

Electrical

Check trailer lights, electric brakes, and break-away systems before each tow. Wiring identification by color: 7-WAY (Green, Yellow, Brown, White, Red, Blue, Purple), 6-WAY, 5-WAY, 4-WAY.