Trailer Hitch: Service and Repair

TRAILER HITCH

REMOVAL

Fig. 10:

1. If necessary, remove the trailer tow wire harness connector from the hitch (Fig.10).
2. Support the hitch.

Fig. 11:

3. Remove the bolts that attach the trailer hitch to the frame sills and reinforcement brackets (Fig.11).
4. If equipped, remove the fuel tank skid plate.

NOTE: The reinforcement brackets are held on the frame sills with two blind rivets.

INSTALLATION

1. Install frame reinforcement brackets, if removed. Slide the brackets through the vehicle rear sill openings and attach to the frame sills with blind rivets (Fig. 11).
2. Using an adequate lifting device, position hitch at the proper location for installation on vehicle and support it.
3. If equipped, position fuel tank skid plate on vehicle frame sills.
4. Loosely install the bolts to attach the trailer hitch (and the skid plate) to frame sills and reinforcement brackets.
5. Tighten all bolts/nuts to 74 N.m (55 ft.lbs.) torque.
6. Remove the lift/support.
7. If removed, attach the trailer wire harness connector to the hitch (Fig.10).