Installation Instructions for Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute

Part Numbers:

• 75118
• 87635
• 44723
• 70636
• 78219 (U-Haul)

Wiring Access Location:

• SUV, SUV2

Tools Required:

• Tin Snips
• Wrenches: 10mm, 11/16", 18mm
• Drill Bits: None

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove Heat Shield:

   • Remove the heat shield on 2002 and earlier models.

2. Fishwire Bolts:

   • Fishwire the carriage bolts and spacer blocks through the access hole at the end of the frame.
   • Keep carriage bolts and blocks independent while fishwiring.

3. Raise the Hitch:

   • Lift the hitch into position and secure it with conical toothed washers and hex nuts.
   • Ensure fasteners are not pushed back into the frame.

4. Trim Heat Shield:

   • Trim the heat shield as per the provided diagram.

5. Reinstall Heat Shield:

   • Reattach the heat shield using existing fasteners. Over the hitch bracket, use the supplied M6 hex bolt and flat washer.

6. Tighten Fasteners:

   • Torque M6 x 1.00 fasteners to 10 lb-ft (14 N·m).
   • Torque all 7/16-14 GR5 fasteners to 50 lb-ft (68 N·m).

Optional Installation with OEM Class 2 Hitch/Bumper:

1. Remove the heat shield on 2002 and earlier models.
2. Raise the hitch into position and loosely install hex bolts into existing weldnuts.
3. Using the hitch as a template, drill a 7/16" hole through the center attachment slot at a slight angle toward the center of the vehicle.
4. Lower the aftermarket hitch and enlarge the drilled hole to 1/2".
5. Open the slot forward of the foremost bolt hole to accept a 1" x 3" block.
6. Fishwire the block and carriage bolt through the access hole into the drilled hole.
7. Raise the hitch into position and secure with new fasteners.
8. Tighten all fasteners:
   • Torque 7/16-14 GR5 fasteners to 50 lb-ft (68 N·m).
   • Torque M12 x 1.75 CL10.9 fasteners to 75 lb-ft (102 N·m).

Torque Specifications:

• M6 x 1.00: 10 lb-ft (14 N·m)
• 7/16-14 GR5: 50 lb-ft (68 N·m)
• M12 x 1.75 CL10.9: 75 lb-ft (102 N·m)

Hardware List:

• (6) Carriage Bolts, 7/16-14 x 1-3/4" GR5
• (6) Hex Nuts, 7/16-14
• (6) Spacer Blocks, 1/4" x 1" x 3"
• (6) Conical Toothed Washers, 7/16"
• (1) Hex Bolt, M6 x 1.00 x 20mm CL8.8
• (1) Flat Washer, 1/4"

Safety Notes:

• Regularly inspect the hitch and ensure all fasteners and the ball are properly tightened.
• Replace any damaged hitch or ball immediately.
• If the hitch is removed, plug all holes to prevent water or exhaust fumes from entering.
• Wear eye protection 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: 3,500 lb (1,589 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 350 lb (159 kg)
• Weight Distributing:
  • Max Gross Trailer Weight: 5,000 lb (2,270 kg)
  • Max Tongue Weight: 500 lb (227 kg)

Compliance:

• This product complies with V.E.S.C. Regulation V-5 and SAE J684 safety standards.

Installation Instructions for T-Connector Adapter

Part Numbers:

• 118343

Wiring Access Location:

• Vehicle's tail light assemblies on both sides.

Tools Required:

• Electrical tape or tie straps (not supplied).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove both tail light assemblies and locate the vehicle's wiring harness.

   • There will be connection points on each side matching the ends of the T-connector adapter.

2. Partially remove the rear interior plastic trim panel on the left (driver's) side and open the vehicle's jack storage compartment to access the tail light openings.

   • Remove the threshold cover plate between the rear doors.

3. Route the T-connector's harness ends containing the green and red wires out from inside the vehicle through the passenger side tail light opening.

4. Disconnect the vehicle's center black wiring harness connector from the passenger side tail light assembly.

   • Note: Be careful not to damage the locking tabs.
   • Plug the T-connector's harness containing the red wire between these separated halves.

5. Disconnect the vehicle's top grey wiring harness connector from the passenger side tail light assembly.

   • Plug the T-connector's harness containing the green wire between these separated halves.

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

   • Route the T-connector's harness containing the yellow wire out through the bottom of the driver’s side tail light opening.
   • Repeat step 4 using the harness containing the yellow wire.

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

8. Secure the yellow wire under the threshold panel.

   • Reinstall the plastic trim panels, jack storage panel, and tail lights.

   • Specifications:

     • This unit is rated for 4 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.