Installation Instructions for Ford Explorer 2 & 4 Door, Mazda Navajo, and Mercury Mountaineer

Part Numbers:

• 75096

Wiring Access Location:

• SUV1, SUV2

Tools Required:

• Wrenches: 3/4", 7/8"
• Drill Bits: 1/2"

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Attachment of Hitch-to-Frame Adapter Brackets:

1. Remove Tow Hooks (If Equipped):

   • Remove the tow hooks from the vehicle frame and return them to the owner for possible reinstallation if the hitch is removed.

2. Attach Adapter Brackets:

   • Secure the adapter brackets to the rearmost existing holes in the vertical surfaces of the vehicle frame. These holes are approximately 18" from the rear end of the frame.

3. Position Adapter Brackets:

   • Orient the brackets as shown in Figure 1. Align the brackets with the existing holes in the frame.

4. Install Bracket-to-Frame Fasteners:

   • Tighten the bracket-to-frame fasteners as shown in Figure 2.

Attachment of Hitch Assembly to Vehicle:

5. Measure and Adjust Brackets:

   • Ensure spacing between the "Long" hitch brackets is 33-7/8". Adjust if needed for proper alignment.

6. Raise Hitch into Position:

   • Align the hitch holes with the holes in the adapter bracket:
     • Use the lower holes in the adapter bracket for the passenger side.
     • Use the upper holes in the adapter bracket for the driver’s side.

7. Secure Hitch:

   • Install hitch-to-adapter bracket fasteners as shown in Figure 3.

8. Drill Holes for 1994 and Prior Models:

   • Using the hitch as a template, drill a 1/2" hole through the frame rail.

9. Install Fasteners for 1994 and Later Models:

   • Secure the hitch assembly using the provided fasteners.

10. Tighten All Fasteners:

    • Tighten all 1/2"-13 GR5 fasteners to 75 lb-ft (102 N*m).

Torque Specifications:

• 1/2"-13 GR5: 75 lb-ft (102 N*m)

Hardware List:

• (6) 1/2"-13 x 1-3/4" GR5 Carriage Bolts
• (6) Lock Washers
• (6) Hex Nuts
• (6) Blocks (1/4" x 1-1/2" x 2")

Safety Notes:

• Regularly inspect the hitch to ensure all fasteners and the ball are securely tightened.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
• If the hitch is removed, plug any holes in the frame or body panels to prevent water or exhaust fumes from entering.
• Always wear safety glasses and observe proper safety precautions when working beneath the vehicle.
• Do not cut access or attachment holes with a torch.

Specifications:

• Weight Carrying (Ball Mount):
  • Max Gross Trailer Weight: 5,000 lb (2,270 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 500 lb (227 kg)
• Weight Distributing:
  • Max Gross Trailer Weight: 7,500 lb (3,402 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 750 lb (340 kg)

Additional Notes:

• This product complies with SAE J684 and V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 safety standards.
• Ensure all fasteners are properly torqued before towing.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter

Part Numbers:

• 118344

Wiring Access Location:

• Tail light assemblies on both sides of the vehicle.

Tools Required:

• None specified.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove both tail light assemblies and locate the vehicle’s wiring harness.
   • The harness will have connection points on each side matching the ends of the T-Connector adapter.

Step 2: Vehicle-Specific Instructions

2A. Vans/Expedition/Navigator:

• Partially remove the rear interior plastic trim panels on the left (driver’s) side.
• Open the vehicle's jack storage compartment to expose the openings to the tail light assemblies.
• Remove the threshold cover plate between the rear doors.

2B. Escort/Tracer:

• Partially remove the trunk lining to expose the grommets accessing the tail lights.
• Remove and slit the grommets to allow wires to pass into the tail light openings.

2C. F-150 Pickups (Flareside Only):

• From underneath the vehicle, locate the access holes into the tail light openings.
• There will be an access hole on each side of the vehicle.

3. From the passenger side, route the T-Connector end containing the green wire out from inside the vehicle through the tail light opening.

4. Disconnect the vehicle’s center black wiring harness connector from the tail light assembly.

   • Note: Be careful not to damage the locking tabs.
   • Plug the T-Connector end containing the green wire between these separated halves.

5. Route the yellow wire across the vehicle under the threshold cover removed in step 2.

   • Route the T-Connector ends containing the yellow wire out through the driver’s side tail light opening.
   • Repeat step 4 using the T-Connector end containing the yellow wire.

6. Test the installation with a test light or trailer.

7. Secure the yellow wire under the threshold panel and reinstall all removed components:

   • Plastic trim panels.

   • Jack storage panel grommets.

   • Tail lights.

   • Specifications:

     • This unit is rated for 7.5 amps per circuit.

Hardware List:

• T-Connector adapter.

Safety Notes:

• Handle all connectors with care to avoid damage.
• Ensure all connections are clean and securely fastened.
• Test the installation after completing all steps to verify functionality.

Manufacturer Notes:

• Follow all warnings and instructions provided with the product.
• Use a test light or trailer to confirm proper installation.